Year 30 Comes to An End

So today was a great day. I cannot believe that it is my last day to be 30, but it is what it is and I am looking forward to 31.
I had three shoot today and they all went great, I would have had one more, but Daylight Savings Time had the client running behind so we rescheduled. Watch the blog at www.monciaannephotography.com as it will be exploding with new sessions soon! I am so excited about the wonderful things that are happening with the business and I know that they will continue and for that I am so thankful. There truly is something amazing about doing what you love.
Laundry was the name of the game at home. While I did not get it all done, I got a lot done and hopefully tomorrow I can be back on top of it.
Brandon and the boys had a great day, they played basketball and went to baseball practice. Brandon even started to work in the garage some, which is great news as there is a lot to do in there. They also watched the race. The boys are really into NASCAR which is pretty awesome.
Well, I have to admit I am pretty exhausted after fighting with my computer most of the night. Hopefully a new one is in my future. We shall see. Until then I will keep bringing it with what I have! :0)
Know that you are all in my thought and prayers. I am driving with the third grade class on a field trip tomorrow so say a prayer for safe travels. Thanks everyone! Good night!

Basketball and Fundraisers

So this morning started with a lot of rain and a basketball game. At 8:00 in the morning we were at St. Francis, it was sort of like every other day. Except the boys were in red and white instead of navy and white. Looked just as handsome though.
John Michael played first. They ended up playing the same team from Our Lady of the Valley that we played last week. The end score was 10-0, not in our favor. The boys had a good time though, and they are definitely getting more aggressive. Maybe tomorrow will be our day. We play again tomorrow.
Since we had several hours before Danny's game we came on home and I tried to get some photographs edited and some homework done. It never ends, but it is all good. I actually got a good bit done and was super thankful for that.
Danny's game was at 2:00 at Our Lady of Sorrows. For the first time they lost. It was a tough game, a lot of rough playing, bad calls, and bad sportsmanship. They were ready for our guys. They had double coverage on two of our guys almost the whole game. It was a hard game. The boys played their hardest down to the last second literally. I am super proud of them. It was a sad day for them, but they should be proud, they played hard and next time they will be ready for them.
Well, we headed to Subway for dinner/lunch and then I rushed to get ready for the fundraiser I was photographing for The Independence Place. This is an amazing thing and while it is a small part I am so glad to be a part of something that is truly going to improve life for so many people.

Basketball Starts Again

This morning we were late again. I swear I have to get in bed earlier or something. I think I am just on overload and it is effecting my routine, which is NEVER good. I am going to work on that hard.
The boys had great days at school. They are sure pumped about the Fun Run tomorrow. They also got to dress out of uniform today, which is always super important to them. It is the small things. They both looked to handsome in their jeans.
While they were at school I scrubbed their bathroom and just worked around the house. I got the shopping list for Thanksgiving ready. I am not sure when in the heck I will be able to go to the store though. It took me all week to find the time to get a gallon of milk so we will see what happens.
There was evidently a shooting at the Birmingham airport tonight. Not sure what all of that is about but it confirms even more that I will not be flying anytime soon.
I had a photo shoot today right after school, which went pretty good. More on that at http://www.monicaannephotography.com/ I am loving being so busy but I am also a little stress just because I feel like I have no time. It will all work out though and it is definitely a blessing that I am thankful for.
Basketball officially started today for Danny. He had his first practice at 5:30. It was a lot of conditioning and skills, but it went great. It is a huge team...15 boys I think so I am thinking playing time will be limited, but oh well, it will be fun.
Progress reports came home today and I am super proud of both boys. They are loving school and their reports show that! YAY! This was definitely a blessing.
While we were eating dinner Danny's tooth fell out. He has been messing with it for about a week, but refused to let me pull it. I am so thankful he did not swallow it. He is lucky! He is looking forward to the visit from the tooth fairy! Fun stuff I just hope I have some cash, any cash. LOL!
Well, it is ten after 11 and I am off to bed! Peace out everyone. Know that you are all in my thoughts in prayers.
PS...trying to figure out when I can go see my vampires on the big screen. Praying it will be sooner than later.

Monday Mania

So today was a great day, while I did not get up quite as early as I was hoping we were up with plenty of time to get ready and get to school on time! A great start to what I know will be a great week.
While the boys were at school I worked in our den, and worked on laundry! There was a lot with me being down the end of last week, but it is caught up and after one more load I will even have all blankets that were out washed. Seriously disinfecting the house. I also started to get what Halloween stuff we had gotten out up. We did not get it all out, and I have yet to get it all up, but I am not far from having it all either.
I got the boys from school and am glad to announce that they had GREAT days. John Michael had a green face, and if he keeps it up the rest of the week we are going to take him and Danny to Logan's this weekend. They have been wanting to go for a while and we figured it would be a good treat. Danny got his Social Studies test made up and I think has almost everything caught up. Another definite positive!
When Brandon got off we headed to Subway to grab a quick dinner. Then to his mom's so he could help her with her computer. Then to the grocery store. Tomorrow I am attempting beef strogannof in the crock pot. I have never made it in the crock pot, but with a photo shoot at 3:30 tomorrow I will not have time to do anything else. Hopefully it will turn out good. With the sessions that I have coming up, topped with basketball coming up I will be relying on my crock pot a lot!
Well, homework and work have me slammed tonight, but I have to get in bed before midnight. That is my goal. We will see what happens. An hour left. Know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Happy Birthday and Happy Halloween

John Michael had to miss his soccer game today, but at least it is not the last one. We will be back in full soccer gear next week. Then onto basketball. I love sports and am so glad that my boys play more than one. I do not want them to get burned out on one sport and I have heard that playing only one and playing it more than once a year means that they are more apt for injuries.
Today was Kimy's birthday! She is 6 months older than her and is one of those friends that I can honestly say I have had for as long as I remember and longer. I am glad that we have always remained friends. Tonight was her birthday/Halloween party. We went but did not stay long. I knew that the boys would want to run around and I wanted John Michael to get to bed. He gets so tired so quickly and that is when he fever goes up, which is not good for anyone. It was a great party though and I was glad that we were able to go even though it was not for long. Thank you as always for having us.
Auburn played Ole' Miss tonight. We recorded it on the DVR and watched it when we got home. It was a great game, I was pretty partial to the second half. WAR EAGLE!
So I am off to bed. I am so tired. Did I mention that I have the office done! I have to get some things out for Hannah Home, but they are coming Tuesday! Seriously pumped!!! Love and prayers to you all. One last shout out...Happy Birthday Kimy!

Bear Cubs on the Court

Mass was this morning. I love starting my Wednesday mornings with my boys in Mass. It is such a special time and allows me some time to reflect and pray, which was much needed today.
The boys' had great days today. Again, this is music to a momma's ears. I love knowing that they are happy and that they are learning. They are great boys and I know that the education and attention that they are able to receive at St. Francis is second to none.
The Bear Cubs had our second den meeting of the year today. It was fun. We started the meeting off with the Pledge and then we set some ground rules with the Wolves and the Bears. I took the Bears out to get to work on their badge. Today Basketball. After going over the rules and some drills, they played each other in a quick game and then to the playground to run off some energy. There is a lot to do to get your Bear badge and I hope that we are able to do this. February is our goal. Now to turn my attention to the pack meeting next week...Popcorn time. Should be fun.
Well, homework is finally done, and now for bath time and bedtime. I am hoping for an early bedtime. I am seriously exhausted!
Good night all my friends! Pictures to come tomorrow. I am tired today :)

April Fools Day

So today started off great and ended great...I am just exhausted, but it is all good.

Today I got up on time! YAY! And took Danny to school. Since John Michael and Brandon were off today I left them here to sleep in a little. We rarely get a chance to sleep in without anyone having to rush around so I figured that they would enjoy it. And they did.

I came home and worked on laundry and some more editing of the pictures from the play. Then it was time to get ready to meet up with Terri and get ready for the wedding we were shooting today. It was the prettiest simple wedding. I was so touched, which I have to admit I am at all weddings, I just Love them. It was such a happy time and the bride and groom were totally consumed with each other, which is always magical. They were such a fun and easy going couple and I cannot wait to get started on their pictures. Thank you Terri for asking me along! It was a blast!

The crazy thing about the house where the wedding was is I actually think that it is a house thatmy mom grew up playing at (her uncles) small world! I will show her the pictures and we shall see.

Well, I made it home with just enough time to change and get the boys (Brandon got Danny from school today) and then head to Danny's basketball party. It was a lot of fun. The boys and the parents had a small basketball game and it was hilarious. Then there was pizza, a cake (because seriously no party is complete without cake) and trophies. The boys won the Toy Bowl and were super excited to get their first place trophies. Thank you Coach Adam for a great season! Until next year!

Then off to the ballpark to pick up uniforms for John Michael's team and get Danny's from his coach. We also helped (well Brandon did) get the bounce houses ready for tomorrow. Opening Day here we come.

Well, I am off to bed. We have to be at the park and I am exhausted. I have a thousand things to do, but it is just not working out for me right now. Too tired!!! Before I go to bed though I will remember to include all of you in my thoughts and prayers! I also am praying for a successful opening day. The park's new president and his wife have put in so much time and all they ask is for the kids to enjoy. You two are amazing and so will this season!

Family Movie Night

Tonight was Family Movie Night. We have very few nights when we are not running and tonight was one of those nights. The boys have been wanting to see Eclipse from the Twilight Saga so that was what we watched. Well, what we are watching. I love family movie night just because it means we are spending time together and enjoying each other.

We try to make sure we take one night a week and do nothing, but with Chess, basketball, baseball, choir, cub scouts, homework, and everything else that is jammed into one week that is getting harder and harder to do. We are staying determined to keep it up. This week is actually slower with basketball just ending and baseball not quite started yet. We actually have the rest of the week off until this weekend which is jammed with activities but they should all be great.

Danny gave it up early and was sound asleep. John Michael is still going. Hopefully he will go to sleep soon so that momma and daddy can go to bed. We want to get to bed early. It helps us all function better in the mornings.

Well it s before 9, but with John Michael still awake I cannot imagine when we will actually get into bed. I am hoping sooner than later, but we shall see what he is thinking. Before I go to bed I will say a prayer for all of my family and friends. Family is so precious and that is why I cherish mine. I hope that you all do as well.

Saints Win and a 30th Birthday Surprise

This morning started with our last basketball game of the season. We played Our Lady of the Valley this morning and won. The second graders from St. Francis Xavier are a great group of boys and this has been a fun season. It has been amazing to watch Danny grow in his knowledge and skill in this sport. I am so proud of him and of all the boys. They finished the season undefeated, today's victory was the closest at 15-10.

Then it was home for the fun to begin.

So I made it through today! It was a surprise party for Brandon. We are both going to be thirty him in less than 2 weeks, me in 2 weeks. I knew that I wanted to do something for him and so an 80's themed party seemed perfect. Everyone was asked to dress up, and let me just tell you I loved it when I was little in the 80's and as an adult it was even more fun. There was the issue of how to surprise Brandon, so since John Michael turned 5 on Wednesday I told him and Danny that I was having a surprise party for John Michael. The thing is John Michael's party is tomorrow. Talk about stressful, 2 parties in 2 days. BUSY, but FUN! Brandon took John Michael to the park to get him out of he house so we could get everything ready, when in fact I just needed him out so John Michael helped BIG TIME! Brandon came home expecting a party, but not for him! He was surprised, and seemed to have had a great time. We even danced off to Michael Jackson's Thriller, and everyone should know I won. I also beat our sixteen year old sister, which was great! I was glad that he had a good time, that was my whole point. He has been having a hard time with turning 30 and I wanted him to know that it would be great!

Well, since I am now 2 hours into tomorrow and we have church, the spaghetti dinner for the school and John Michael's Birthday party I am off to bed! Before I go to bed I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers. It has been an amazing day and dressing up, and just having a good time with family and friends has made today a really special day it has also made me realize just how important it is to get the most out of each day and truly enjoy it. Life should be a party, and should be enjoyed. Brandon and I are hitting milestones this year in the world of birthdays, but more importantly we are doing it together! We are living life, and enjoying it. It is not perfect and definitely not easy, but it is ours! Celebrate something everyday!

The Day Before....

So a lot is happening tomorrow and if I can get to it then I will be one happy person. More details later! Tomorrow is Danny's last basketball game, so it will definitely be a bittersweet moment. It has been a fun season, and it being his first he learned so much and really improved. It has been fun watching all of the boys out there really enjoying themselves. I plan on having my camera tomorrow, hopefully it will not find comfort on the couch tonight.

Danny lucked out with an extra day out of school. This morning while we were getting ready for the day, the phones rang and due to the power outage at the school. The plan was to open at 10, if the power was not on by 9:30 we would get another call school would be canceled. Well, at 9:30 school was canceled. Needless to say he was a happy boy! I cannot say that I blame him I still do remember the days of no school.

The pictures today are more for my aunt. She got two outfits for the boys. Anyway, John Michael's pants were about a foot too long and Danny's vest just want not happening. I was going to try to go really cute for a photo opportunity and well, it ended up with the boys falling and hitting their heads. It was bad for a few minutes and I felt like the mom of the century. John Michael basically decided that the time to choke his brother was while he was on his back! Needless to say I saw it happening and was second behind stopping it, but it was that second that counted. Fortunately they are both fine! They inherited their hard heads honestly....and they are extra think since their momma and daddy both have them!

Well, it is definitely not 9, closer to tomorrow, but oh well. It has been a great day and I was able to accomplish a lot! I hope that tomorrow is even better. I love the weekends especially when I get to spend them with my family!

Before I go to bed tonight I will make sure to say a prayer for all of my friends and family. There are so many little things that we forget about as adults. Like the simple joy of a day out of school, the excitement that can come from change. We tend to stress about things when they do not go the way that we had planned. But you know I have always heard if you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans! This is so true. When things do not work out the way that we had planned it means that they are probably going to work better because we allowed Him to take control and personally I like Him in the driver's seat. While I had a lot to do and was convinced that this was going to slow me down it actually helped me enjoy my day and I got a little more done than I expected.

The last Basketball Practice

Well today was definitely the day after a birthday at our house. Because we try to make the whole day special and about the boys the day after they are usually in wonderful moods! It is sort of like a college day hangover....only there is no alcohol involved. Maybe I should start consumption of it so that it does not seem so bad. JOKING for all of those who are following who do not know me!

Today was the last practice for Danny's basketball team. I have to admit I am a little sad. I will miss watching these boys really give it their all. This was a team scrimmage and it was very entertaining and close. I cannot believe that I left my camera, but I will have it for the last game Saturday, at least that is the plan. It has been a quick season, but I guess they always are when time is flying by.

Baseball should take us to the end of school. If you have not signed up Clay Recreation is adding one last weekend for signing up, which is great! I love sports and I am so glad that the boys do too.

We came home and had to rush through dinner, then shower for John Michael and homework followed by a shower for Danny. They are passed out now and even though it is not before 9, which figures I am headed there myself soon.

Storms are a possibility tonight, but it is all good. I am looking forward to rainy sleep, which is always the best. I am hoping that the severe weather radio stays quiet.

Well, before I go to bed tonight as always I will be remembering all of my friends and family in my prayers. Whether or not you have voiced your request or it is an internal desire it is remember ever night by me. There is so much that we all leave unspoken out of embarrassment or just because we feel it is too private to share, but know that I am praying for you!

Remember that we all harness an amazing gift from God but we must use it!

Basketball, Party, Basketball

Today was a great Saturday, as always it was busy, but it was a lot of fun. Any day that is spent with my men is a great day in my opinion and today was just that.

This morning started with Danny's basketball game. The St. Francis Xavier Saints went to St. Rose Academy for basketball this morning and came out on top. The score was 20-11. This was the closest game that the boys have had to date. I was so glad that they won and have maintained the undefeated season. One more game and then they can claim the Toy Bowl trophy. We shall see how it all happens. They have a break next weekend and then they go to Our Lady of the Valley for their final game.

When we came home Danny and I got to work in his room. He cleaned off his desk, dresser and nightstand while I tackled his closet and his drawers. I still have the closet floor and the shelf in the top of it to completely be done in there. We still have a lot to do in his room, but we made a HUGE dent today. I also have the three drawers in his bed. Since we are not going to the morning Mass but to the 4:30 PM Mass I am hoping that we can finish it up in the morning. It would be a GREAT Valentine's Day present to me!

We had a birthday party and the boys had a blast. They always have a good time with Sasha and Conner and with even more kids added to the mix the good times were even more in abundance. Of course Sasha's birthday just reminds me that my babies birthday is around the corner. These kiddos are growing up so fast. I remember when Amy and I were waddling around Wal-Mart trying to go into labor.

We finished up tonight with a trip to the UAB game. UAB vs. Rice. It was a great game and we were glad to see the Blazers come out on top. This was a cub scout trip and those boys got a kick out of being called out by the announcer! Pack 357, had a great time at the game! I am going to see about getting some patches made for them, we will see what I can come up with. I don't think I will have it for the Pack meeting this month, but hopefully the blue and gold.

Well, it is definitely not before 9, but I knew that was not going to happen today. Before I go to bed, which will be in a moment, I pray for all of my family and friends. You guys are amazing!

Spaghetti with a Sprinkling of Love

Dinner tonight was spaghetti. I made enough to freeze some and to make some baked ziti and freeze it as well. John Michael decided that he wanted to add sprinkles to the spaghetti and of course Danny followed suit. Well, adding it too all of the spaghetti was not going to happen so we let them add it to their plates. It was pretty humorous. Danny added a few too many, and he fixed another plate, but John Michael said that his was perfect! They definitely made dinner time even more enjoyable than usual. I love our family dinners, they mean so much and I hope that the boys will continue this when they have families of their own.

We have another early basketball game, but it is a lot of fun. Danny is loving it. I am a little sad that they only have tomorrow's game and then one more.

Time seriously seems to pick up a little each year. They get older, busier, and the clock speeds up. I wish that it would slow down some. The blog is allowing me to make sure that I enjoy each day though. Everyday is a blessing and this allows me to really think about all of the blessings that I have.

Well, I started on laundry catch up this afternoon. The heater/ac man assures us that the leak is not coming from there, but we went through this a few years ago, and after paying 2 plumbers guess what it was...the AC. I swear I do not know what to do. If money were not an issue it would be easier, but money is a HUGE issue. I will just wait and see I guess. I will keep you all posted.

Tomorrow after the game, before the birthday party that is before the UAB game....seriously going to be a busy Saturday I am hoping to get Danny's room done. I am making it a project that he tackles with me, whatever we do not get done tomorrow will be done Sunday! I am determined, that means next week after the Valentine's festivities I will be able to tackle the den (which is also the playroom) and the office (which is also the catch all. I worked on it some to get all of my taxes done, but there is a lot to go!

Well, it is still not before 9, but it is all good. I will be remembering all of my friends and family in my thoughts and in my prayers. I hope that everyone has a great night. A friend of mine's husband left at noon today for Afghanistan. I am praying for his safe return and for her and her son. They are amazing people and have faith, but prayers also give them added strength so please remember them and all our troops and their families. These men and women put their lives on hold for America and should always be respected!

Saints Work the Court Again

I have never been a huge follower of basketball, and I even played for a while. The thing is I never actually understood. This year watching Danny and his team I have learned so much and enjoyed every practice and every game. Today they played Holy Family at St. Patrick's Church in Adamsville. They won 22-2, I was so proud of them all.

We really had a lazy day at the house. It was so cold and so we literally sat around and watched movies all day. Not at all what I wanted to do this Saturday, but it was a nice break. I tried to bribe the boys to get their rooms cleaned, but no such luck. I will continue to try, or I will go in with the garbage bags! We shall see what happens first. There is too much going on this month not to get this house finished.

Tomorrow is the Scout Mass at St. Francis Xavier, the 11:00 AM Mass. Danny is doing the first reading. He is so excited and I am so proud of him. In fact all of the readings for Scout Sunday are being done by second graders. I cannot believe that they wanted to do it. We tried to get older boys and girls, but they were not having it. I know that they will do great though!

I have a lot to do for the month of February and every time I think I have some control on it another day gets by me. Seriously 2011, I am working on enjoying every minute, but if they would stop counting so fast that would be great!

Tomorrow it is supposed to be in the fifties, not ideal, but a vast improvement!

Well, again not before 9, but it is all good! It will happen, maybe?!?! I will be praying for all of my friends and family. I love you all. So many people are sick or have sick kiddos right now and I pray that everyone is 100% healthy soon!

Pancakes, Practice, Pictures...and More

So I seriously cannot believe that it is February. Part of the reason behind this blog is so that I remember to treasure each day. It is the present, because it is a gift. I am determined to smell more roses and stress less. This is helping, but it is definitely not slowing down time at all.

Well today started with taking both boys to school in just a little drizzle like rain. Then back to Danny's school to help with the pancake breakfast for the Kindergarten, First and Second Grades. It was a great breakfast, and the children all really seemed to enjoy it. I was glad to be there for Danny man. It was also Parent's appreciation and during morning drop of the children were clapping for us and they brought of a bag full of little goodies. It was so sweet. My children getting the best education and a Catholic foundation is so important to Brandon and me.

After getting the boys from school, Danny had Choir practice, then he practiced his reading for Mass next Sunday, and then Basketball pictures, and then basketball practice and followed it up with our Cub Scout Den Meeting. It was definitely a wild Tuesday. We have to finish his Hat Book Report tomorrow night, but there is not much left to do, so it should not be problem.

Tomorrow the second grade is doing the Mass, and I am so excited. I have not decided if I am going to take John Michael in late or if I am going to let him stay home. Time will tell!

Well, before 9 was not an option tonight, maybe tomorrow night. Before I go to bed I will be remembering you all in my thoughts and prayers. Time is precious! Enjoy it but cherish it.

Basketball...Haircuts...GREAT WEATHER!!!!

Well, today was quite a day! We had a lot to do and a lot going on, but it was a great one!

First, I want to sing praises for the amazing weather. I could not have drawn a better January Saturday! If only it would stay, there is a lot more winter. Hopefully not a lot more winter weather though! I was able to get the van cleaned, inside and out and that alone made me feel wonderful! I have been trying to get it done and today I just did it, with the help of the family!

Danny had another basketball game. This one was against the other OLS team and the SFX Saints won again. The final score was 23-2. These boys play so well together and have a great time. Danny played well especially considering that his finger was jammed after throwing the football around Friday night with Brandon. Brandon felt horrible, but it is doing better. Still sore and black and blue, but it is better. I felt horrible because I forgot my camera. They only have a few more games so I cannot do it again. The thing was we were running late, and when I remembered it was afraid if we turned around we would be even later, it worked out that we were 10 minutes early. Go figure. Oh well, there are reasons for everything.

Tomorrow morning the children's choir is singing at Mass so it should be great! I will remember my camera. Maybe I will put it in the van tonight.

We came home tonight and Brandon wanted to cut his hair, Danny wanted him to cut his, and then my rock star John Michael wanted his cut too! Well, they all have matching haircuts now! It is so sweet and I do like it, but he looks so much older now. They grow up so fast! Prior to matching haircuts, they got matching head lights today and were super excited!!! Check out the before and after pics for John Michael!!!

Well, still not before 9 but it will happen! SOON! Before I head to bed as always I will be praying for all of my family and friends. I love you all. I hope that you have all been able to enjoy this weekend and that it continues to be great for all of us and all of you!

Interviews with the Grandparents!!!

Well today was a blessing in itself that the sun was shining all day! I absolutely loved it!!!! I miss the sun and the warmth that it brings. Come on summer and spring!

Today we had to finish up Danny's interviews with all the grandparents. It was a lot of fun. I had to do my dad's because unfortunately I cannot find a number for heaven. If I could I would be more than happy to pay long distance just for a few minutes with him and his voice. It was really great though because thinking back to the stories he used to tell was amazing! Danny talked to Nana, Meme and Pop. I wrote the answers because I figured being able to speed write and read it would be important. Danny has nice handwriting but not when he does it quickly. I am not sure what they are doing with these interviews, but I know that it will be special. I need to let his teacher know I can help her with the typing if she needs it.

Basketball practice was a lot of fun and Danny is ready for his game Saturday morning. He is really loving basketball. I am considering a baseball or maybe a basketball camp for him this summer. Auburn has several. We will just have to see if we can do it monetarily. Maybe there will be one closer or cheaper.

John Michael is spending the night with Nana. He was really excited, as long as he got pizza. He is a trip. I am sure that they are having a great time and I miss him as always. We will pick him up tomorrow before we get Danny from school.

Well, it is 9:04 so I still did not make it to bed before 9, but as soon as I can get Danny there, I am headed there. I am pooped. I have decided to take back my house and control it instead of my house controlling me. Today the kitchen is done. Cleaned, cleaned out, organized, the whole nine yards. I also got another dinner in the freezer. Tomorrow it will be Monica vs. the Dining Room and since Brandon is home I am hoping it can be Monica & Brandon vs. the Dining & Living Rooms! We shall see.

Tonight I will be praying for all of my family and friends. I love you all! I hope that everything is wonderful for everyone and that the sun shines down on us all! My deadline for one of my projects is tomorrow so please say a prayer that it all works out.

SFX Saints go 3-0

Danny's basketball team had their third game today and they won! 21-3 was the final score. They played Prince of Peace and Danny was able to see his Chess Coach, and played against his son. After the game Danny told them that he was glad he could beat Clay in something. Needless to say he has not beat him in Chess yet. It is so funny to see the competition in these little guys, they are serious! They all are good sports though and it is so great to see.

All of the Christmas decorations are in from outside. That is a definite plus! Now to finish up the inside. I swear I feel overwhelmed, but I know that it will all come together. It really has too. I am determined to stay positive and just keep working at it. Next year I will be more organized if it kills me. Also, I have 2 families to deliver Christmas gifts to. I will probably send them with Brandon to work since he works with the dads.

So there seems to be snow in the forecast for next week, and possibly the next. Last week we had ice and this week it snowed for like an hour Thursday night. I am seriously over it, but I will say if it is going to do anything snow is better than ice. I am however still of the belief that the worst profanity in the book is snow and when put with significant...it is even worse. Cover your children's ears, pack your bags, and let's move to the tropics!!!

I did get all of the laundry but one load done, so that is a definite plus! Laundry is such an irritating thing! Mainly because it NEVER ends! Danny's school uniforms are ready for the week and this time I will get them all right, I hope. I screwed up twice last week!

Did anyone know that Medium's last week was this past week? I love that show and was so sad to see it come to an end.

Well, I am off to bed still after 9:00 maybe tomorrow night. I will continue to pray for all of my friends and family. I love you all! I wish that I would have been in Auburn today! I will always be ALL IN! WAR EAGLE!!!

Lions, Tigers, and LEGOS Oh My!!

Today was a nice Friday, typical with Brandon and John Michael home. We spent most of the morning playing with legos. It was fun! When Danny got out of school we all went to pick him up and had a really nice afternoon and evening.

I have been trying to declutter and came across a lot of CDs. Most of them have pictures on them from when Danny was a baby. I have definitely dried a lot of tears as I was able to see so many pictures of my dad and many of them were from my dad. I miss him so much and while I have had to keep living I often wonder how different things would be if he were here. I know that he is healthy now though and that he is with God, and while that makes me smile, it also hurts. I figure it always will.

I have a lot to get done this weekend and it does not look like going to Auburn is in the cards. That is slightly upsetting, as I wish we could be there. I love my Auburn Tigers and while I will not be there physically, my heart is always with them! Plus we really do not need to spend the money on the gas at this point. Maybe if it would warm up a little I would be able to get some photo shoots in.

So, I am watching the news and am concerned about the words significant and snow being used together. Does anyone know where Al Gore is these days? I would love to discuss global warming with him, but I would like for him to spend the night in Alabama (Grayson Valley) outside in his underwear.

Danny has his third basketball game in the morning and I am very excited about it, and he is too! He really loves it and I am so glad. Baseball will be starting soon, so I am going to change my address to the Clay Ballpark. Both boys are playing so hectic will be a key word!

Well, I am headed to bed guys....still not making that 9:00 deadline. I will keep trying though! I will be saying a prayer for all of my friends and family tonight. For everyone going to Auburn, have a wonderful time and take some pictures for me! Also be safe! I hope that everyone has an amazing weekend! See you all Saturday!

Taking it all Down

Well, we have finally started to make progress on our Christmas decorations. The outside stuff still remains, but so does a lot of ice. We will get it though. We have about 10 boxes packed up and the big tree completely taken down. There is so much to get done, and I always forget how difficult this task can be, especially with the boys helping! Oh well it is fun family time.

Danny had is second basketball game today. We played at Our Lady of Sorrows in Homewood. Danny was a little nervous about not playing at home, but they did great. In fact the score was 26-2, so I would say they did very well. They had a good time too which is what makes it all worth it. I was pretty mad at myself though as I walked out of the house and forgot my camera, had we not been pushing it with time we would have come home. I will not make that mistake again. Well, I hope that I don't. Danny still has not made a basket in an actual game but his time is coming! He is practicing a lot he just needs to get a little more aggressive, it will come with time though!

Overall it has been an amazing day, despite my questionable mood! That too will get better I think it is just a genera funk brought on by questioning that life so often throws in our direction.

Well Mass is early in the morning so I am going to head to bed early! On my way there I will continue to pray for all of my friends and family. You cannot know what you mean to me. Thank you for everything, whether it is a hello on facebook, a quick e-mail, or a phone call somehow you all know when I need you and are there. I hope that at some point I am able to show you all what you mean to me!

Remember to never take a second for granted. If you love someone tell them and if there is a lot of negative energy walk away from them. There is no reason to be forced into a situation that makes you uncomfortable. Do what works best for you and those you love the most.