full plate!

I am determined to finish! I have officially taken on one more title "full time college student"... ( I know what you're thinking... "what was I thinking?!!") My plate is officially FULL!!! I am really enjoying doing something for myself though. I like my schedule and classes this semester and I am sure I will finish with pretty decent grades too! Now I know why you are suppose to go to college and finish before you have children! I find myself thinking... "if I would have done this 4 years ago, how easy would it have been?!!" but of course I wouldn't trade my kids for the world so I have to find some sort of balance for my new life as a student. I am trying to figure out how to make it all work, but I know with a little time (and frustration) it will all work out! I am absolutely exhausted so tonight my blog is short and sweet. I will highly encourage (as did my parents) my children and any other adolescent to finish college after high school and before children :) My brain is pooped!

08-22-2010

My day began at 4:30 am. Charlie woke up crying pretty hard. When I walked across the house to his room I stopped to make him some milk, warmed it up, and when I looked at the clock I realized this was almost the exact time, one year ago, that my water broke- Many times when he wakes up crying or throwing a fit I am usually irritated and cranky, but tonight I found some kind of weird peace about the fact that he woke me up crying at the exact time that I woke up one year ago- thinking then... "here we go"... I found myself just talking to my baby as I rocked him back to sleep, telling him the story of the day he arrived...
It was an early morning, I kept getting up thinking I had to pee AGAIN.... but this time it was a bit different (I won't go into graphic detail), I remember waking Justin up (and feeling so bad because I knew if it was a false alarm he'd have to go lead worship on little sleep) on a Sunday morning and saying "Baby, I think my water broke...??" He of course rushed up out of bed and was in some what of a hurry... I called my grandparents and they came over to the house to sit with James and Henry while we went to the hospital to meet Ashlea (she was going to be my ride home, had it been a false alarm, this way Justin could get to church and lead worship that morning) We got to the hospital and they confirmed- it was time... I had to have a c-section this time because of some minor complications- My nurse went off to call my doctor and twenty minutes later I met my 8 pound 4 ounce beautiful baby boy- Charlie Everett Mann. He was so pretty, dark skin, a head FULL of black curly hair. I had a wonderful doctor she came in, although she was not on call that morning, to do my procedure. I love Doctor E. Sparks!!

 God truly does still work miracles, everyday a child is born is no more than that... a modern day miracle from the Lord. There are times in life that we doubt our faith and we wonder and question different things, but the times that I was pregnant and soon after having a baby, I do not think I have ever felt closer to God. It is so incredible that we (HE) can create life from our life. I don't think I have ever prayed more in my life than during the times that I was expecting a child... (I'm sure my prayers will get more intense as they grow). The experience of carrying your own child is indescribable. It isn't always fun... but none the less incredible.

Charlie was such a wonderful newborn. His cry was faint... he would wiggle and grunt and I'd get up to nurse him and then off to sleep he went. He was such an easy infant, he slept next to my bed in a bassinet for about six months and I have to say I'm a sucker for my babies. I hate moving them across the house, into their own room. Thank the Lord for modern day inventions such as the "video baby monitor"!!! As a new mom I think this is a MUST! At first I debated on whether or not to splurge and get the video monitor, but I am very glad I did. The kids rooms are on the opposite side of the house as our room, having a video I can look at puts me a ease with out getting up, walking across the house to make sure they are still breathing.. lol (you know you've done this).  Back to Charlie boy... He is such a blessing in my life. He has a passive nature, but at times can be a little firecracker! He and Henry play so well together now, it brings me much joy to see them play and laugh together and James is such a wonderful older brother and great care taker of these two! One of his favorite games to play right now is getting a pillow and let his head fall into it- this will create an outburst of 'belly' laughter- he just thinks he is so funny. I love watching him discover new things, like how to put blocks together, or hitting a balloon over and over again. He has a few words, Mamma, Dadda, Bath and I think he tries to mimic Bubba and bite...  He loves bath time and as soon as I say "bath" he rushes to the bathroom with much excitement, he loves to splash and play in the running water!  He loves his sippy cup of milk, especially if you warm it up a bit, and after his party yesterday I would have to say one of his favorite foods is chocolate cake with chocolate icing! I can not believe he is one year old. I feel like last week we brought him home from the hospital (and Henry was trying to feed him animal crackers :) I am sad that this time has flown by so quickly, but excited to see how all of my boys grow up. I have always said being a Mom is the greatest most rewarding job ever, but also the hardest thing I have ever done- mentally, physically, and emotionally. Nothing can prepare you for the trials or the joys motherhood will bring. With all of this being said... I love you Charlie boy- Happy Birthday!

Charlie's Party

What a day!!! We began at Harrah Church this morning... new series, GREAT service. I have to say, I love my church. I love hearing Kevin preach and I love to hear my husband sing and worship our great God.  Witnessing my husband lead people in worship is one of my favorite things in this world. I may be a bit partial, but he is gifted in such a way- He's the best I've ever heard :) I love you babe! We rushed home after service and then began to prepare for our little guys big day. Everyone arrived about 3:00 and we started to party! He got some fun stuff... a basket ball goal (one for little guys of course) a scooter, clothes (which mom loves!) and lots of other great stuff! We had lots of people here and we had a great time. Charlie loved everyone singing him happy birthday and clapped when they were through. Then we gave him his own little cupcake and to town he went!!! He LOVED his chocolate cake! He ate that thing for over 30 minutes!! Icing and chocolate cake were everywhere!!!! We stripped him down and washed him off in the kitchen sink. I know I have said this several times and I will probably write about it several more, but I can NOT believe my baby is one! They all grow up too fast!! I was very happy with how everything turned out today- I don't know why I always stress out about how everything is going to work out... but it always does :) I love my life, my family, and my boys. I probably sound like such a mush, but when it comes to being a wife and a mom- I get a little mushy. I love em all! What a great day...
To end it off we went to Grandpa Charlies house (yes- my baby is named after his gpa's). My cousin James is in town from Afghanistan for some R&R... he has had a rough week- He was hit by an IED this past week and lost some very close friends. We are so lucky that God has kept him safe over there. He is here for two or three weeks and then back he goes :( It is my prayer that he is protected while serving our great country. He is a brave young man and I am very proud of him. I have several cousins serving in our military and I appreciate and look up to them very much. We had dinner and visited with my cousin James and family. My three boys had a little too much fun... they started off by playing in a small dirt pile then Grandpa got out the water hose. They were soo muddy and dirty!!! It so fun to watch your kids play and laugh together. What a blessing. Now everyone is in bed and its about time for me to call it a night. I start school tomorrow- hopefully I can handle it with everything else. Wish me luck!

One of my favs... Charlie Boy

Charlie Everett Mann ~ 08-22-2010

8-22-10

This was Charlie's first time to meet his brothers. I can not believe it has already been a year. This picture has always been dear to my heart. I love my beautiful boys.

Getting ready to Party!!!

Today was a great day with my hubby and kiddos! I worked half a day and then spent the rest of my time with my amazing family. We prepared for Charlie's first birthday party (which is tomorrow)! I can not believe the time has already come. It seems like when you are pregnant that baby is NEVER going to make it into this world, and then they are here and BAM... they are one! It's like my life is flashing before my eyes. Everyday goes by quicker and I just wish I could slow down... enjoy this time. Which I am totally enjoy it, it just seems to be going by soooooo fast!!! I always thought of myself as an adult and what my life would be like as a grown up, but never did I think I would make it here. I can not believe I am old enough to have kids of my own. When I first brought Henry home from the hospital I can remember thinking... "when is his mom going to get here, Oh wait- thats me!" It was all so surreal. I also can not believe the good Lord has blessed me with not one, not two, but three kiddos! I remember all too well last year when my water broke and Justin and I went to the hospital for Charlie boy to be born. While I was in the hospital Henry learned to walk... that was hard to leave him behind, but he was in good hands. (thanks Mel)! To think that was one year ago is absolutely unreal. So I am debating on whether or not to go to church tomorrow. I really need to clean my house before I have company over here- but the party isn't until 3:00, so surely I will have plenty of time to get all things done after the party right????? I am so thankful that we finally live in a house where I can have company. It is so fun to entertain and have family and friends over. I love it! Well this is all for now... wish me luck tomorrow... hopefully I won't be a basketcase! Happy Birthday (party) Charlie~ Mommy loves you!

Last Friday before school...

Today marks the last week-day before I try to finish my college degree once again... third times a charm right? Next week I will be going to school full time, working part-time and of course being a full-time mommy/wife. I am trying to finish my early childhood education degree, I keep asking myself if I will actually teach in a classroom ever? I think it will be hard to go to work and actually have a boss... I've been so spoiled to being my own boss and working for myself as a hairstylist the past six years. So why now you ask...???? Lately I have been feeling like I haven't done anything for myself. I need some self worth, I need to be Heather again and not just someones mommy or wife. Although being those boys Mommy is the BEST job ever!!! I still need a place to be myself or feel like I have worth. Sometimes as moms I think we tend to put ourselves on the back burner... I don't want to sound selfish at all, I absolutely love being a mommy and I am very blessed to have been able to be a part-time "stay at home mom", but I really feel like I need to finish school for me. I would like to have professional options, what if I don't want to be doing hair when I'm sixty?! At least when I finish school I will have a degree in my back pocket and I will have a choice... and it is something no one can take away from me! I am scared, nervous and excited about Monday. Now on to more stories about the boys....

Henry was his usual funny self today. He decided today he would free fall sideways off the arm of the couch into the couch! I know one of these days he is going to have to be rushed to the emergency room- that boy has NO fear! He usually loves to play with Charlie and today he played with him a lot, but at one point I noticed Henry is sitting in front of the tv and Charlie is no where to be found. When I asked Henry where his brother was he said "in my room" (you should know he had closed the door to his room and therefore his one year old brother could not get out) I then proceed to tell him he can not close the door on Charlie, and his response to me is "I no want to play with Charlie Mommy... I just want to watch tv." in the sweetest way possible. I have to admit it made me laugh on the inside but at the same time I'm like REALLY??! TV??!! Oh dear. Charlie on the other hand was perfectly content in Henry's room playing by himself.
James came home today... he started third grade yesterday. It's unreal that he is already in school, much less third grade! When asking him about his day today he began to tell me that he always has liked school a little but he LOVES third grade. He was very excited about all the journals he gets to do and his new teacher. I love hearing him talk and tell stories. James' funny quote of the day "having a birthday party with no theme, is like having a huge crack in the knights shining armor!" Note to self... Always have a themed party!! Henry was very excited to see his big brother today!
Well it is past my bed time and after the last couple of nights with my babies waking up every few hours I should probably get some zzzz's!

sleepless nights

Sleepless nights really do make me love my babies even more.... Although the entire day I've been dragging, and my kiddos aren't feeling the greatest... I love being able to love on them and tend to them. I think we have a touch of a small virus- getting better every day!  On another note...Henry is so cute with Charlie right now, he's constantly calling him by name and he sounds British when he says Charlie. "Charlie come play! Charlie give me a hug! Boomer Sooner Charlie!!" it is his mini me! I know I keep blogging about Henry but he is in such a cute and funny stage right now. This morning he brings me my phone and says "Mommy, I tell Daddy I love you"... So we took a video and sent it to Daddy of Henry boy saying he loves his daddy!! We are all missing James today and wondering how his first day of third grade was. I can not believe he is old enough to be in third grade. It makes me sad that he is growing up so fast! He is quickly changing from a little boy to an independent big guy :/ He is such an old soul and I love him dearly, when he is away it is like something is missing. We will all be so excited to see bubba James tomorrow!! Fridays are fun because I'm off with the baby boys and the big boy comes home!! Today has been long and I am looking forward to seeing my Hubby this evening and not cooking...  pizza night here we come!!!

Five Dollars...

Today was just another normal life in the day of Heather... The boys and I had a good day at home together. Wednesdays are my days at home with the kiddos. Today both kids slept for two hours and at the same time!! I love it when this happens- I actually get to be productive on days like today!! After dinner and Justin coming home, I went to a girls night out with some girl friends from work. We had a "gold party". People bring all their old gold jewelry- I have heard of these before but never participated in one. Unfortunately I do not have any ex boyfriends or husbands therefore I have no old jewelry to get rid of. Did you know that gold is worth almost $1800 per ounce??!!! I watched women walk away from this party with over $1000 in cash for a handful of jewelry they probably haven't worn in years, nor will they ever wear it again!!! I however had one pair of sterling silver earrings and one silver ring- you want to know how much money I took home.... $5!! Haha!! It was worth the fun with my girl friends though! And hey I bought a gallon of milk on my way home for the kiddos... luckily I had my five bucks ;) I think I will be hosting one of these parties in the near future... the hostess makes some nice mula her self! Anyway not too much exciting happening today- but I did come out ahead... $5 that is.

My sweet Henry

Tonight as we are getting everyone settled down after bath time,  I find myself trying to hurry the night away. Everyone eat... as I swallow my dinner whole.... Time for a bath- rush, rush, rush, the night away. I am sitting talking to a good friend and Henry is ready for bed (and should have already been in bed) his little voice starts at me, "I hold you Momma, pwease"... It is during these little sentences that I find myself trying to slow down, Reminding myself to soak him up. These past few years have gone by so fast and I want to remember every little thing- especially from my boys. The time we have with our children is so limited. I really wish I could put them all in a bubble- or just save each cute stage they go through. My how during these times I realize how incredibly blessed I am. My children are safe, they are healthy and we have love. As I put Henry to bed, he is in a phase where, we have to lay down with him at night to get him to go to sleep. Usually all I can think about, as I lay in his room waiting for him to give it up, is everything I have to do... dishes, laundry, emails, etc... I'm rushing through life. Tonight I made myself slow down a bit as he begged me "Mommy lay down pwease"!!- as I lay next to one of my babies watching him dose off. The joy I found tonight from that sleepy child is indescribable. I love him so much and I wish I would slow down more often and enjoy the simple things! It is the simple things that make life so worth living.

To begin...

I have always loved to write. My entire life I have kept journals, wrote poems and kept records in books. As my life has drastically changed over the past three years the journals have become few and the books I do have, the pages are empty. I am committing myself to write this way- to have access to my thoughts at all times. I want to keep the memories I am making now so I can relive them later. My life is so incredible- I have been blessed by and incredible God. I have a loving husband and three wonderful boys! They are my life. I am excited to see where this blogging adventure takes me. Until next time...