OUR life, OUR memories... MY journal

...Human Life Day...

2012-01-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

Sunday Jan 22, 2012 was Human Life Day. It was also the day I would be introduced as a pro life coordinator for God and Good Shepherd. I am really excited about this adventure and I want to remember every inch of it SO, until I get another blog made I will be documenting here!

The speech I spoke in hopes to bring attention to this horrible situation:

In the next seven days nearly 20,000 babies will be killed legally in the United States.
Let that sink in a minute... in that minute, 3 more will be killed.

The mission of the Pregnancy Resource Center is to reach women, men and families in an unplanned pregnancy that are contemplating abortion. Your support of the PRC provides confidential and free of charge services to all.

Please pray that this stops and let's pray for the courage and compassion to be part of the solution.

So, there ya have it... short, sweet and to the point!

Because I have 3...I am open to any and all advice!

2012-01-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

25 Rules for Mothers of Sons

1. Teach him the words for how he feels.

Your son will scream out of frustration and hide out of embarrassment. He'll cry from fear and bite out of excitement. Let his body move by the emotion, but also explain to him what the emotion is and the appropriate response to that emotion for future reference. Point out other people who are feeling the same thing and compare how they are showing that emotion. Talk him through your emotions so that someday when he is grown, he will know the difference between angry and embarrassed; between disappointment and grief.

2. Be a cheerleader for his life.

There is no doubt that you are the loudest person in the stands at his t-ball games. There is no doubt that he will tell you to "stop, mom" when you sing along to his garage band's lyrics. There is no doubt that he will get red-faced when you show his prom date his pictures from boy scouts. There is no doubt that he is not telling his prom date about your blog where you've been bragging about his life from his first time on the potty to the citizenship award he won in ninth grade. He will tell you to stop. He will say he's embarrassed. But he will know that there is at least one person that is always rooting for him.

3. Teach him how to do laundry...

...and load the dishwasher, and iron a shirt. He may not always choose to do it. He may not ever have to do it. But someday his wife will thank you.

4. Read to him and read with him.

Emilie Buchwald said, "Children become readers on the laps of their parents." Offer your son the opportunity to learn new things, believe in pretend places, and imagine bigger possibilities through books. Let him see you reading...reading the paper, reading novels, reading magazine articles. Help him understand that writing words down is a way to be present forever. Writers are the transcribers of history and memories. They keep a record of how we lived at that time; what we thought was interesting; how we spoke to each other; what was important. And Readers help preserve and pass along those memories.

5. Encourage him to dance.

Dance, rhythm, and music are cultural universals. No matter where you go, no matter who you meet - they have some form of the three. It doesn't have to be good. Just encourage your son that when he feels it, it's perfectly fine to go ahead and bust a move.

6. Make sure he has examples of good men who are powerful because of their brains, their determination, and their integrity.

The examples of men with big muscles and a uniform (like Batman and LaMarr Woodley) will surround your son from birth. But make sure he also knows about men who kick a$s because of their brains (Albert Einstein), and their pen (Mark Twain), and their words (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.), and their determination (Team Hoyt), and their ideas (The Wright Brothers), and their integrity (Officer Frank Shankwitz), and fearlessness (Neil Armstrong), and their ability to keep their mouths closed when everyone else is screaming (Jackie Robinson).

7. Make sure he has examples of women who are beautiful because of their brains, their determination, and their integrity.

The examples of traditionally beautiful women (like Daphne Blake, Princess Jasmine, and Britney Spears) will surround your son from birth. But make sure he knows about women who are beautiful from the inside out because of their brains (Madame Marie Curie), and their pen (Harper Lee), and their words (Eleanor Roosevelt), and their determination (Anne Sullivan), and their ideas (Oprah Winfrey), and their integrity (Miep Gies), and fearlessness (Ameila Earhart), and their ability to open their mouths and take a stand when everyone else is silent (Aung San Suu Ky

8. Be an example of a beautiful woman with brains, determination, and integrity.

You already are all of those things. If you ever fear that you are somehow incapable of doing anything - remember this: If you have done any of the following: a) grew life b) impossibly and inconceivably got it out of your body c) taken care of a newborn d) made a pain go away with a kiss e) taught someone to read f) taught a toddler to eat with a utensil g) cleaned up diarrhea without gagging h) loved a child enough to be willing to give your life for them (regardless if they are your own) or i) found a way to be strong when that child is suffering...you are a superhero. do not doubt yourself for one second. Seriously.

9. Teach him to have manners.

Because its nice. and it will make the world a little better of a place.

10. Give him something to believe in.

Because someday he will be afraid, or nervous, or heartbroken, or lost, or just need you, and you won't be able to be there. Give him something to turn to when it feels like he is alone, so that he knows that he will never be alone; never, never, never.

11. Teach him that there are times when you need to be gentle.

Like with babies, and flowers, and animals, and other people's feelings.

12. Let him ruin his clothes.

Resolve to be cool about dirty and ruined clothes. You'll be fighting a losing battle if you get upset every time he ruins another piece of clothing. Don't waste your energy being angry about something inevitable. Boys tend to learn by destroying, jumping, spilling, falling, and making impossible messes. Dirty, ruined clothes are just par for the course.

13. Learn how to throw a football...

...or how to use a hockey stick, or read music, or draw panda bears, or the names of different train engines, or learn to speak Elvish, or recognize the difference between Gryffindor and Slytherin, or the lyrics to his favorite song. Be in his life, not as an observer but as an active participant.

14. Go outside with him.

Turn off the television, unplug the video games, put your cellphone on the charger, even put your camera away. Just go outside and follow him around. Watch his face, explore his world, and let him ask questions. It's like magic.

15. Let him lose.

Losing sucks. Everybody isn't always a winner. Even if you want to say, "You're a winner because you tried," don't. He doesn't feel like a winner, he feels sad and crappy and disappointed. And that's a good thing, because sometimes life also sucks, no matter how hard (as moms) we try to make it not suck for our kids. This practice will do him good later when he loses again (and again, and again, and again, and again.....) Instead make sure he understands that - sometimes you win - sometimes you lose. But that doesn't mean you ever give up.

16. Give him opportunities to help others.

There is a big difference in giving someone the opportunity to help and forcing someone to help. Giving the opportunity lights a flame in the heart and once the help is done the flame shines brighter and asks for more opportunities. Be an example of helping others in your own actions and the way your family helps each other and helps others together.

17. Remind him that practice makes perfect.

This doesn't just apply to performance-based activities (like sports and music) but also applies to everything in life. You become a better writer by writing. You become a better listener by listening. You become better speaker by speaking. Show your son this when he is just young enough to understand (that means from birth, folks - they are making sense of the world as soon as they arrive), practice trick-or-treating at your own front door before the real thing. Practice how you will walk through airport security before a trip. Practice how you order your own food from the fast food cashier. Practice, practice, practice.

18. Answer him when he asks, "Why?"

Answer him, or search for the answer together. Show him the places to look for the answers (like his dad, or grandparents, or his aunts/uncles, or his books, or valid internet searches). Pose the question to him so he can begin thinking about answers himself. Someday, when he needs to ask questions he's too embarrassed to ask you - he'll know where to go to find the right answers.

19. Always carry band-aids and wipes on you.

Especially the wipes.

20. Let his dad teach him how to do things...

without interrupting about how to do it the 'right way.' If you let his dad show and teach and discover with your son while he is growing up, some day down the road (after a short period of your son believing his dad knows nothing), he will come to the realization that his dad knows everything. You will always be his mother, but in his grown-up man heart and mind, his dad will know the answers. And this will be how, when your son is too busy with life to call and chat with his mom, you will stay connected to what is happening in his life. Because he will call his dad for answers, and his dad will secretly come and ask you.

21. Give him something to release his energy.

Drums, a pen, a punching bag, wide open space, water, a dog. Give him something to go crazy with - or he will use your stuff. and then you'll be sorry.

22. Build him forts.

Forts have the ability to make everyday normal stuff into magic. Throw the couch cushions, a couple blankets, and some clothespins and you can transform your living room into the cave of wonders. For the rest of his life, he'll be grateful to know that everyday normal stuff has the potential to be magical.

23. Take him to new places.

Because it will make his brain and his heart open up wider, and the ideas and questions and memories will rush in.

24. Kiss Him.

Any mother of sons will tell you that little boys are so loving and sweet. They can be harsh and wild and destructive during most of the day. But there are these moments when they are so kind and sensitive and tender. So much so that it can cause you to look around at the inward, reserved grown men in your life and think, 'what happens in between that made you lose that?' Let's try to stop the cycle by kissing them when they're loving and kissing them even more when they're wild. Kissing them when they're 2 months and kissing them when they're 16 years old. You're the mom - you can go ahead and kiss him no matter how big he gets - and make sure he knows it. p.s. (this one is just as important for dad's too).

25. Be Home Base.

You are home to him. When he learns to walk, he will wobble a few feet away from you and then come back, then wobble away a little farther and then come back. When he tries something new, he will look for your proud smile. When he learns to read, he will repeat the same book to you twenty times in a row, because you're the only one who will listen that many times. When he plays his sport, he will search for your face in the stands. When he is sick, he will call you. When he really messes up, he will call you. When he is grown and strong and tough and big and he feels like crying, he will come to you; because a man can cry in front of his mother without feeling self-conscious. Even when he grows up and has a new woman in his life and gets a new home, you are still his mother; home base, the ever constant, like the sun. Know that in your heart and everything else will fall into place.

"I wanna play...

2012-01-18T11:02:00.000-08:00

Pirates of the CARROT Bein'"

Another post on LIFE according to Jensen!!!!

He spoke, I listened...

2012-01-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

Sunday, the day I look forward to all week. It's a day of worship, family and rest.

Today was an unusually different Sunday for me. It was an emotional, beautiful, amazing, phenomenal day!!! Besides giving birth to my boys, marrying Ben and gaining Jensen... it was THE MOST astounding day I have EVER had.

The day started out as any other Sunday. I woke up, had some coffee, got ready and headed to church (one of my favorite places). While listening to the Pastor Christine's message today, I was irritated. I was mad because I wasn't getting anything out of it, I caught myself thinking about home, work, laundry, what I would make for dinner etc. and then it hit me as clear as day...

I felt God sit down next to me,

he grabbed my hand and said

"I am here with you and I love you."

I listened to a woman that I adore, that I look up to and cherish. A woman that came into my life at the perfect moment, I just didn't know it until today. She is Pastor Christine Nelson. If you know her, consider yourself blessed. If you don't, you need to!

Before I go on, I need to back track and tell you about two experiences I have had. Two separate people, two separate babies, two separate situations but ONE God by their side before, during and after.

In March 2010 I became friends with one of my biggest enemies. We grew close and our friendship became like non other all because of a baby. This baby was soon to be placed for adoption. The most admirable decision I have ever witnessed but one of the saddest as well. Not that I think adoption is sad, but it is... What a sacrifice for a Mother to make, one that you could only do with the help of God.

In the mean time I met a girl that I loved from the get go, one night she called me and said that she was pregnant and she was placing the baby for adoption. My immediate thought was"can I support and befriend someone in this situation again?"

Selfish? maybe. Under educated?absolutely.

I remember praying different prayers at different times for these girls, their babies and the families on both ends and I remember asking God "why had he wanted me to be a part of this? Why was I feeling so compelled to learn from these girls? Why?" Two years have gone by and today... HE finally answered.

Back to today, Pastor Christine was telling us about the Pregnancy Resource Center / PRC. The PRC is a corporation that helps both guys and girls who are unprepared for pregnancy learn their options. They provide counsel, practical resource, referrals and so much more.

Pregnancy Resource Center has helped over 1,600 clients and they continue to receive help at no cost.

NO COST? Here is when it was starting to make sense. And then Pastor Christine went on to talk about Karen and the role she passionately played for the PRC, and then it hit me... Karen. The Karen, Pastor Christine spoke about today has terminal cancer. They more I heard the harder I cried. I cried because I knew in my heart I am supposed to help. After the message I cried tears of joy because I knew what I needed to do.

I waited until church was over and I went straight to Pastor Christine. My plan was that I would tell her I want to help anyway I can. I wanted to make her aware that I feel very passionate about this situation and when I got in front of her I opened my mouth and God spoke...NOT me, God... I blurt out, "I want to take her place," I want to carry this on in Good Shepherd, I want to take over for Karen and I know this is right because, God told me today. He has been planning and teaching me about a passion that I love and today he put his plan into place. I am so lucky. Lucky to have God and Lucky to follow in Karen's foot steps.

I don't know what this chapter of my life entails just yet but... I can assure you, I will not leave you hanging. If you wanna follow my amazing new ride, jump on. I'd love to have you. I'll need your love but most of all your support!

I'm so thankful to my Father in Heaven for giving birth to my purpose in life on this day!

Amen

Because...

2012-01-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

...NOTHING tastes as good as skinny FEELS, Ben and I decided it's time to start a

We are having a competition... who can lose 20lbs the fastest!He is doing...I am doing a little...

and cutting out junk food and soda pop!
Wish me luck... everyone says guys lose faster BUT, I am confident that I will win and either way, we are BOTH going to be SMOKIN' HOT!!!

Jack says the darndest...

2012-01-06T11:54:00.000-08:00

Just a couple more things outta the mouth of Jack....

Mom: "Jack are you finished eating your pop corn?"
Jack: "I am just finishing the kennels (kernels) Mom!"

Jack: "I have the best dea (idea)"

He always makes me SMILE, and that is what life is all about!!!!!

New Years Eve and Day, twenty TWELVE? Wait...

2012-01-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

... where did ELEVEN go? We had a lot of fun this year, we do every year... we play, drink, eat, drink, play, and got to bed all by 11:00!!! We change our clocks and celebrate the new year with fireworks and all the jazz, the kids love it and they are SUCKERED every year!!!

This year during new years eve DAY, we went shooting with my Dad, Kim and Lori!

Later... Brady, Ashely & Thomas came over for a BBQ (in January???) some drinks, some Michael Jackson on the XBox, some FIREWORKS and lot's of FUN!

Ash can do a mean Billy Jean... and an even meaner THRILLER!!!I tried...

...but I could only master the CROTCH GRAB!

Jensen had a BLAST...

Tommy had a blast...

and they all got a work out!

Even Jaden wasn't too cool to play!
Ash and I knew how to start (or by the looks of our faces) continue to party!

Here's to a NEW YEAR...

haha... have ANOTHER,

and ANOTHER!!!

Jaden and Jensen played with sparklers while we BBQ'd!

We hope everyone had a safe and happy NEW YEAR!

CHRISTmas 2011

2012-01-06T07:15:00.001-08:00

This year I wanted to really remember the reason for CHRISTMAS is in fact... CHRIST! I wanted to "give" to those in need and "forgive" those I haven't! I feel like I did just that! Every "pan handler" or "bell ringer" received some of my cash and I am PROUD! I felt CHRIST like in almost every decision I made in December! I have BIGger plans for next year but I am happy to say I have 11 months to plan!!! With all that said, we had an AMAZING CHRISTmas this year! As you know from prior posts, Ben and I were prepared 100%!!! We had purchased everything (well, almost everything) that the kids asked for! I had a HUGE surprise up my sleeve for Ben and little did I know... he had one up his for me too! *I love that guy*
CHRISTmas eve was as traditional as always! Relax, clean, change sheets, open our CHRISTmas eve (always NEW jammies) presents... (NO picture of Jackee :( He spends CHRISTmas eve day with his Daddy, Sarah & his Sissys)
...get all dressed up and head to CHURCH!!! The candlelight service at Good Shepherd Lutheran is and always has been my FAVORITE part of CHRISTmas! For whatever reason... I didn't get a picture of all of us all decked out together.

CHRISTmas morning was awesome! Although I missed having my Parents there (Dad woke up late and Mom worked) to watch the kids open gifts, it was nice to do it as a little family! Here are a bunch of pictures of the GLORIOUS day!

Jaden, bright eyed (always) at 5:30 am!

Jackee bum, cuter then cute!

Jensen Dean, ready to head out into the cold, I mean... WARM!For over a month I had an empty box wrapped under the tree in hope I'd throw Ben off my trail!

After he opened the box I think he knew what was in store...I was so excited I could hardley stand it... from the minute I put the down payment on this (4th child of ours) gun, I was dying to tell him!

4 boys... 3 guns... a scooter ...AND...

a VERY proud Mom!Another GUN picture!Jensen "DING" got the mustaches he asked for! Miss Matis got a new bed, a new baby and some treats from Santa!

(Her God Mom's spoiled her ROTTEN!!!)Jaden finally got the PRO (not just any old scooter) scooter he had been DREAMING of!!!Jack and his FAVORITE present... (not even real) pop gun!Ben and I were SPOILED to say the least. PLUS... the surprise he had up his sleeve... NOT ONLY did he shop on BLACK FRIDAY but, he bought me the Cannon Camera I wanted!

Yard tools are my FAVORITE......Next to COOKING things!Jaden's Stash!Jack's Stash!Jensen's Stash!OH YA, and... on CHRISTmas eve, eve... Ben and I bought this for our family! We hope your CHRISTmas was full of CHRIST and as amazing as ours!

Another AMAZING Lil' BanksTradition...

2011-12-14T06:53:00.000-08:00

This is my FAVORITE Christmas tradition we have with our kids! Each year they have to spend their own money and buy a gift for a child in need.
They understand and LOVE doing this!!! It makes me so proud of them!

They are getting so BIG...

I can't wait...

2011-12-13T09:41:00.001-08:00

... to meet these amazing people FACE TO FACE!!! We get to talk/text/facebook but it just isn't cuttin' it anymore! We are literally months away from a trip to LOUISIANA!

Meet our family, the BANKS...Cute huh???

Doug, is Ben's Brother and this is his Wife, Scarlett

I love them both VERY much!
These are my Nephew's Seth & Stanton and my sweet little Niece, Sabrina

Are they the cutest?

Even 1, 704 MILES away... Doug and Scarlett have ALWAYS made me feel loved!!!

Gingerbread Houses 2011

2011-12-12T10:53:00.000-08:00

We are continuing our "Lil' Banks" Christmas traditions (these are the tradtitions that Ben and I have started with just US and our BOYS)... Making our Gingerbread town is just ONE of the many.... Mom's House & Dad / Jensen's Masterpiece Our FAMILY PHOTOJaden's CANDY GONE CRAZY House and Jackee Bums creation!

Ginger-BANKS Village Last year...

"He is SO your Son..."

2011-12-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

The other night Jaden came into our room and said "I think my singulair (asthma pill) is stuck in my throat, it's burning and I can still taste it." I asked him if he swallowed it with water and he said "NO! That would make it slide right down." Ahahahaha!!! I looked at Ben and he said "he is SO your Son."

I love you Jaden Layne!!!!

I love the FAITH of a child...

2011-11-26T11:10:00.001-08:00

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and, has made the Lord his hope and confidence.

- Jeremiah 17:7

Last week Ben, Me, Jaden, Jack and Jens were all in the car driving home. Out of nowhere Jack said "Mom how are we going to know where Aunt Ruth is buried?" ( Aunt Ruth passed away the beginning of November.) I said "Well honey, Aunt Ruth wasn't buried, she was cremated." He thought for a minute and said "Why did they do that?" We went on to explain that some people choose to be cremated and some choose to be buried. Jaden immediately said "that's what I want, to be cremated." (As if this whole death/kid conversation wasn't hard enough to swallow...) Jack jumps in and says "Not me, I don't want to be burned." Jaden stopped him and said "sick Jack do you just want your body to rot?" Jack (without missing a beat) says "NO! I want to be buried so I can be REINCARNATED!" Really??? Where does this kid come from?

In the same car ride home we have another similar conversation. It went like this:

Jensen: "Mom I want to hug Jesus."
Me: "I do too Jens, wouldn't it be great?!"
Jack: "It would be so neat because even if we have just a bruise, Jesus would hug it right away."

I wish he'd listen to me like he listens in church!!!

My 2011 CHRISTMAS Goal...

2011-11-19T12:51:00.000-08:00

Call us crazy if you wish... I just want to remember the calm feeling I have right now as we approach the busiest time of year.

The last part of October while Ben and I were watching TV, a commercial for the list of upcoming Christmas movies came on. I thought to myself (the same thing 99.9% of adults think)

"YUCK...Christmas already???"

I looked at him and said "let's get all of our stuff done as soon as possible so that when we hear or see the word CHRISTMAS we don't have to flinch." He agreed and by that weekend... we were at the starting line.

It has been almost 3 weeks since we decided to celebrate Christmas 2011 STRESS FREE, and I am ECSTATIC to report... not only are we 95% finished with our shopping but, we are done wrapping and we have decorated!!!

I want to remember Christmas as a fun time with our little boys. I want to CONTINUE and MAKE NEW, traditions. I want to give to the less fortunate and most of all I want to snuggle on the couch in pajamas with the love of my life and our amazing little boys while watching Christmas movies and talking about Jesus!

Jensen's Christmas List

2011-11-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

A few nights ago I was reading a story to Jaden, Jack and Jensen. In the middle of the story I was stopped by Jensen as he began randomly rambling off his Christmas wish list.

"I want a BATMAN BAT CABE (cave) with BATMAN, PENGUIN & JOKER. I want a COMPUTER. I want a FLIP CAR (?) with YELLOW & BLUE stripes. I want a COMPUTER. I want a PLAYSTATION... a blue one. I want a COMPUTER. Do you think I could have 2 PLAYSTATIONS??? Oh.................... and I want a MUSTACHE."

Seriously... this kid cracks us up ALL THE TIME!!!!

Jensen Dean, remember I will ALWAYS love you like my own!!!!

I'm BACK and giving it 100%

2011-11-10T12:40:00.000-08:00

I am so sad that I have let so much time pass with-OUT journaling. Really??? My kids are growing so fast, they are doing so many things, and changing every day. AND... I haven't been keeping a journal? SAD!!!

I decided it is time to (really) focus on what matters most and what I want to look back on. I decided an updated status, how many friends (acquaintances) you have, who commented on what and the BIGGEST thing... who is hurting who, are not memories that "I" want to keep.

So from here forward, this is MY JOURNAL... MY LIFE... MY MEMORIES!!!

One of the many things I NEVER want to forget....

2011-11-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

... when Jack is telling or trying to tell us something and he gets frustrated trying to explain he says "everymind" aka... nevermind!!!!

I love you my sweetest baby boy!

Memorial Day 2011

2011-10-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

Each year I take my boys to decorate graves of our loved ones. I also started a tradition (a morbid one I've been told) a few years ago of taking their pictures on my Grandma Shirley, my Grandpa Verlo, and Donna & Elmo's (my God Mom's parents) graves.
This year when I got to Grandma's all I could do was cry. I forgot the oil and it looked like nobody cared about her... I HATED every second of it. Since I had just had my double scopes on my knees I couldn't drive myself (my cute Dad took us with him everywhere) Kim took me back up to the cemetery a few days later and we cleaned it up real nice!
I wish I had a picture of the boys with her AFTER!

My babies with my BEST FRIEND, Grandma Shirley My boys with our REAL angel, Grandpa Verlo

My Dad, His Dad and my boys!The boys with Donna & Elmo

(Elmo loved my Jaden)

Can you say "L-U-C-K-Y" ???

2011-04-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

AGAIN, it is so wrong that I haven't updated my blog, especially with memories like this...
I have an amazing God Mom, KIM. With her I get Lori... DOUBLE luckiest God Daughter EVER!
Kim is like another Mom to me, I get the great, good, bad and ugly. She is one of my best friends and favorite people in the WORLD, I'd be lost without her. With that being said, my boys ALSO get the love from Kim and Lori. They are always there for our boys from them being sick to not missing a sports event or buying from a fund-raiser they hit it all! They also spoil the crap out of our boys. This year for Easter Kim and Lori bought the boys a basketball standard and each of them a basketball. Now my title "LUCKY" makes sense huh?!

Here is a great picture of the 5 of them!!!
Jaden and his friend Jericho throwin some hoops!
Jack loved the basketball stuff but lets be honest...
He is just not a sports kid! Stephan and Jaden playing a game of HORSE
Jensen patiently waiting his turn!
THANKS SO MUCH KIM AND LORI!!!

Pre-Easter Fun, with-out little Jackee...

2011-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

This year for Easter, Jack went camping with his Dad. Even though we missed him so much, he sure did have fun!

Jader and Jens

Daddy helping
BANKS - 2011 + FOREVER!

Ben, Jadie & 3 J's

Awwwwe...

I love Jaden's CURSIVE!!!

Never forget Jack!

Jensen LOVES mom!

Our Easter, TWENTY ELEVEN ...

2011-04-25T11:36:00.001-07:00

Jaden's Stash...Jack's Stash:

Jensen Dean's Stash:

Jens was SO dang EXCITED for his new bike!

I'm okay with a skate board on the carpet... it's so much safer then cement!!!

Excited about a CANDY BABY RATTLE!!!

Excited for his new shirt! He finally fits in Aero clothes!!!

Morning Easter Craft!

Dad is SiLlY...

but, the love of my life!!!

Dinner time!!!

Jensen at the 3 and under table :)

Tommy at the 3 and under table with Jensen!!!

We had my Parent's and my little Brother's, little Family for dinner. I made Green salad, fruit salad, funeral potatoes, ham and homemade honey rolls! It was sooooo YUMMY!!!

After dinner my Parents left and we all hung in the sun waiting for Jackee to get home.

Bikes, scooters and skate boards OH MY!

Oh and GUNS!

YEA!!! Jack is home!

Come see what the Easter Bunny brought you!

Ready for an EGG HUNT!

Tommy found one!!!!!

Jensey's on a roll too!!!

Uncle Brady helpin' Jack get the high ones!!!

Jack finding the real hidden ones!

Jaden... I see 2 in this picture you haven't found yet! HaHaHa

Looking to see whats in their eggs!

My little brother, Brady's Family!

Little Banks Family!

Jack loving his new scooter!!!

Tommy

My 3 boys and my little nephew on our evening walk!

Jaden and Jack were WAY AHEAD!!!

The little boys were falling behind!

Time to go!

Relaxing after a very fun day!

Fun with Family...

2011-04-25T11:35:00.001-07:00

Ben & I along with Lydia & Stephan and our kiddos got together the weekend before Easter. We bbq'd Hamburgers & Chicken, had a Fire Pit, played cards and LAUGHED!!!

Here are a few pics of the night...

Daddy & Jens Lee Laa and Hyatt swingin'
Jensey swingin'

Hyatt trying to decide how much fun this really is!

Byzee Boo Boo

Hyatt bundled by the fire!

Warming the hands!

Hyatt snugglin' uncle Benj

Proud Mama

Boys wrestling like CRAZY

Benny loves that baby!

Cute Mom and Dad!

"Brudders"

Still goofing around!!!

We sure had a good night. Love you Steph, Lee, Byzee Boo Boo and Hy Guy!

Chicago Cub x 2???

2011-04-25T11:34:00.001-07:00

Jack #2

This is the 2nd time he has played baseball, the first year was NOT a success!!!

So after a 3 year break, we tried again. Little Jackee got CHICAGO CUBS yet again!

This is a face I LOVE SOOOOO MUCH! My little Jack, baseball may not be his sport!
After he hit this ball (which was NOT a foul) he stood there!
When I asked him "Why didn't you run to first base?" he said...
"I forgot Momma!!!"
Team cheer! Go CUBS!!!

Red Socks... OR... Redsox?

2011-04-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

When I first told Jensen he was going to be on the "Redsox" he said "no, I don't have RED SOCKS!"

Jensen Banks #6

1st game of the year!

As you can see the weather was quite NASTY to say the least. Actually, Jensen's game wasn't too bad. Jaden's last hour... UGLY, FREEZING and WINDY!

Jens up to bat with Coach Brock I love that he uses his tongue for EVERYTHING! He was having a blast! Funny that Jaden is "Banks #6 also"

"RUN, RUN...."

Playing first base gets EXHAUSTING,

so he took a break and sat with Coach Jake! YEA!!! Game over now, VICTORY RUN around the bases!

Getting ready to give a cheer to the other team.

" Wahoo!!!"

I am so happy we all agreed on putting Jensen in TBall this year, he is loving every minute of it. I hope he continues on to enjoy things as simple as baseball thru his ENTIRE life.

P.S. The highlight of the game... I was a little late because I was on another field watching Jaden. When I got to the TBall field Jens had not yet seen me and he was up to bat. While running to 1st base he got the BIGGEST SMILE, ran sideways and screamed "hi Mom" all the way there! Everyone loved it, and me... I'll NEVER forget it!

My little Indian...

2011-04-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Jaden Banks #6

1st game of the Season with the same Assistant Coach from the last 6 years, happens to be GRANDPA! My Babe... He is AMAZING!
Here it... (look at that face... it shows dedication)
...COMES!!!
Team cheer, AWESOME first game! GO INDIANS!!!

I am the proud Mom of...

2011-03-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

THREE Baseball players, I can't even believe it! I may just be the PROUDEST Mom around!

We may have just signed our Spring / Summer away BUT, these 3 little guys are what we live for!!!

Jaden is in the Minors, would you believe this is his SIXTH year? Crazy how time flies, he's playing for:Jackee is in Machine Pitch, this is his 2nd year playing. The first year, 3 years ago didn't go so well BUT, I have high hope this year and he's playing for:

And little Jensen Ding is in his first year of TBall, playing for Jaden's biggest RIVALRY team:

Here is your heads up... TONZ O' pics to come!!!

These are a few of my FAVORITE things...

2011-02-10T11:10:00.000-08:00

After working an 8 hour shift, doing homework, laundry, refereeing, dinner, baths, taking care of our Dog, visiting as a Family, etc.

Here is my REWARD!
I do the things I do, Monday - Friday because of this:

My amazing Husband

Jaden always posing!

Settled in and comfy!

My lil Jackee... my HEART!

Dream BIG baby!

Jensey, so happy...

...so beautiful!!!

Even Matis is happy!

SUPER, SuPeR bOwL!!!

2011-02-07T07:35:00.002-08:00

Go GREEN BAY!!!!

So, I have to admit... I'm not a HUGE NFL fan, I prefer college football and ML Baseball but my favorite thing to watch is THE BACHELOR! lol! Then I have Jaden, the BIGGEST sport fanatic out there!

I decided in advance that I did not want to go anywhere for the Superbowl. Ben had to work and I had Jaden & Jack. Besides, I am a baby about being home on Sunday afternoon / evenings! I love being in my jammies and ready for bed by 5:00...NO joke... Anyway, about 5:30 I began to get a little sad. Here I was home watching the Super Bowl with No Friends and No junk food. All of a sudden something big happened in the game and Jaden went nuts! And that's when it hit me, this was right where I wanted to be!

Jaden has been 100% POSITIVE that Green Bay would WIN Super Bowl XLV, he was so sure that he placed a $5 bet with Grandpa Brad!

Little Jack fell asleep pretty early but not before he said "Mom, I know how to play football... you grab the ball, tackle everyone and touch your base!!!" It was the funniest! Anyway it ended up just being Jaden and I watching the game. Can I just say, this was the BEST Super Bowl I have EVER been part of! Jaden and I were a wreck when the Steelers decided to start playing. We were hoopin n hollerin and totally laughing at each other! But the funniest was watching Jaden stress about losing his $5.00. He kept saying, "oh man, I don't really have $5.00 to lose." When he caught me texting my Dad telling him Jaden was stressed, he flipped out! "I'm not stressed Mom, the Packers will win!" GeEz... pardon me! Anyway, he was right.

When they did win he said "Ha Ha, Grandpa was bragging all day that I was going to owe him five bucks and now, he owes me!!!" So, my Dad... just like his Dad... brought the $5.00 right over!

Thanks Jaders for making Super Bowl so fun! I love, love, love you!

Jackee Ju is SIX!!!

2011-02-07T07:35:00.001-08:00

On January 13th, 2005 Jackson Brad was born. He weighed 8lbs 1 oz and was 21inches long!

Jack has the BIGGEST heart out of any person I have yet to meet! He tests us every chance he gets and he always makes us laugh!

Jackee,

Thanks for always being so sweet to me.

Thanks for never forgetting to tell me "I love you Mama, I missed you" when I get home from work!

I love when you get up in the mornings, just to sit and talk to me while I'm getting ready!

Your silliness is my favorite, you are developing the "Winberg" sense of humor and we all love it!

Thanks for choosing Jaden and I as your family way back when... and

Most of ALL... thanks for being MY baby!

I love you forever, I love you for always... Mom

NINE years... REALLY?

2011-02-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

I can't even believe that my baby turned 9 this year. It really seems like yesterday that he was born. Sometimes I wish it were yesterday :)

From day ONE...

to day NINE!!!

Jaden is in the 3rd grade now! He loves writing in cursive and hates math! Right now he is playing Jr. Jazz basketball and hanging out with Friends every chance he gets. He loves making his Brothers laugh AND cry. He gives me a run for my money but I LOVE HIM TO DEATH!!!

Thanks Jaden Layne for letting ME be your Mommy!

Christmas 2010

2011-02-04T12:07:00.001-08:00

"Twas the night before Christmas...

What would SANTA do without cookies?

Jaden Layne's Stash

It doesn't look like TONZ but, he got a cell phone!!!

Jackee Brad's Stash

He LOVES Batman!

Jensen Dean's Stash

Part one...

Part TWO!

Miss Matis' Stash!

ONE...
TWO...

THREE, excited, tired and overwhelmed BOYS!

SEE... I told ya he got a phone! He was thrilled!!!

Daddy and Dean!

In mid November Jack brought this hat home. He said "Mom, I made this for Daddy and I want to wrap it for him for Christmas." I gave him the tape and paper (NO scissors of coarse since Jack is grounded til he's 21 from them) and let him go to town! I wish I had a picture of the HUGE box he wrapped it in and the beautiful wrapping job but I don't. Every time I though about Ben opening that gift I got more and more excited for Christmas.

FINALLY... the time came!

Ben LOVED the gift and Jack was the proudest little boy in the WORLD!

It must be a special day if we are opening bubblegum at 5 AM!

PROOF! It's that kind of day!

After we looked at everything Santa gave us, we headed over to Grandma and Grandpa's.

Grandma came over early to watch us open gifts BUT Gramps wasn't feeling well. If you ask me... he probably had 1 too many drinks the night before, just sayin!

Jack and Daddy

We spent a few hours at my Parent's house, headed home and Ben's Parent's came over!

After that... all 5 of us PLUS Matis, stayed home and did WHAT EVER we wanted!

Because we eliminated bouncing from house to house, It was the nicest Christmas yet!!!

Is this the BEST? I just LOVE these little Nerf Boys more than ANYTHING!

Last but not least,

DAD PILE!!!!!!!

"Happy Christmas to all and to all, a GOOD-NIGHT"

More "Banks" Christmas traditions!

2011-01-03T08:42:00.001-08:00

Building gingerbread houses is our FAVORITE tradition!

The clean up should not be confused with the fun part!

My little JackeeEating lots of frosting is always part of the deal!Jader and Mom! Jaden's

Jack's

Jensen Ding's

3rd Annual "Toys for Tots" drop off!

2011-01-03T08:37:00.000-08:00

This is the 3rd year that I have made the kids spend their own money on less fortunate kids. They earn mula, pick out what they want to buy then DONATE IT! I love this tradition! Jaden looks like he doesn't like it... he really does! He just hates the camera!

My ALWAYS happy Fievel!

Poor Jens! He totally got the wrong idea and thought the toys were his!

I'm so proud of you boys! Thanks for caring about others before yourselves!

Our 2nd annual trip to see the lights and Santa at Thanksgiving Point!

2011-01-03T08:26:00.001-08:00

Lots of Pictures... No words right now since I'm trying to catch up!

Matis is THREE!

2011-01-03T08:14:00.000-08:00

On November 20th our baby girl turned "3"! We had a little celebration that consisted of a homemade dinner, presents and cake! Matis, we love you so much and we are truly blessed to have you in our lives!

A day out with my GIRLS!!!

2010-12-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

On Saturday December 4th a group of High School Girlfriends got together for breakfast! WoW, we I don't know about anyone else BUT... I had a freakin BLAST! We talked about everything from Junior High to Our SEX lives (I'm still laughing about that one)! I am so glad we did this, as usual... we discussed doing it more often, and we missed those of you that couldn't make it. I love you all....

Alicia (My BESTIE), Lacy, Melissa, Camelle, Brandy, Staph, Christie (Poop Shoe) and Jenn!

Brandy and Steph...

these 2 GIRLS are the definition of BEST FRIENDS

Christie and Jenn

After breakfast, Alicia and I spent some

much needed "bestie" time

walking thru the Festival of Trees!

All the trees were amazing and totally off the charts with creativity.

These were a few of my FAVORITES!

Alicia, I love you to the Moon & Back...FOREVER! Oh ya, and back again...FOREVER!

45 QUOTES that we should live by:

2010-12-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. your Friends & Parents will, stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to Disagree.
7. Cry WITH someone, it's more healing than crying ALONE.
8. It's okay to get angry with GOD, he can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's okay to let your Children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye but don't worry, God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath, it calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood but, the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it come to going after what you want in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but YOU.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words, "In five years will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone, everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business!
30. Time heals almost EVERYTHING. Give time, time!
31. However GOOD or BAD a situation is, it WILL change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of WHO GOD is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative...dying young.
37. Your Children get ONLY ONE childhood.
38. All that really matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside EVERYDAY, miracles are waiting EVERYWHERE.
40. If we threw all our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The BEST is YET to come.
43. No matter how you feel... get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield...
45. Life isn't tied with a bow but, it's still a GIFT!

I have SO much catching up to do BUT...

2010-11-30T12:44:00.000-08:00

... I wanted to give a shout out to my BEST best Friend.

26 years ago today an amazing couple gave birth to a sweet little girl, they named her Alison Jane.
At the time of her birth, I was a little girl myself (okay... a little older :) life was so care free and easy going. I didn't have a care in the world however, there were a few things I dreamed of...
1- I wanted to meet, fall in love with and marry my BEST Friend.
2- I wanted to be a Mom.
3- I wanted a BEST Girl Friend.. One that I could tell ANYTHING to, One that would be there for me thru EVERYTHING and One that would judge me for NOTHING.

In the last few years my dreams have come TRUE!!! The have come in crazy forms and totally out of order BUT, they have come true.

For those of you who don't already know...
1- Benjamin Jensen Banks is my BEST Friend and Husband.
2- I have 3 amazing little boys... Jaden, Jack and Jensen (Ben & Alison's)
3- Alison is not only my BEST, best Friend BUT... she is Jensen's Mom and Ben's Ex-Wife.

So... Do you think it's strange that Alison and I are so close? Join the other thousand People who question it too!

Just like any other "new" Wife / "ex" Wife OR "Mom" / "Step-Mom" relationship, ours too started out HORRIBLE (to say the least.) People told me things, People told her things, etc. Pretty soon we were not only ENEMIES but we wished the other dead.
Anyway, after some life changing events, starting to respect one another & trying to be on the same page raising Jensen... Alison and I began talking. We started to put things behind us and we grew closer and closer.

Today, Miss Alison Jane West and I are BEST best Friends. We text each other a hundred times a day, and talk at least once a day. I look back and realize, I'd be lost with out her. I know it sounds strange... and, I am so incredibly lucky to have such an amazing, wonderful Husband who supports my Friendship with his Ex-Wife... but Alison ALWAYS knows when I'm sad, she knows how to fix it and she NEVER forgets to check on me. She is there no matter how happy, sad, mad, etc. I am.

I love her so much and I am so THANKFUL that God chose her to make my dream of having a BEST Girl Friend come true!

Alison,
I hope today is the best Birthday you have ever had and I hope that they keep getting better each year because we have a lot of them to celebrate together!

I LOVE YOU BUT... ONLY...FOR...FOREVER!

P.S. There are 2 songs I added to my play list.

The Pretenders, I'll Stand By You.
It's actually a song that Alison said describes what She feels for me... but, these are a few of the lyrics of how I feel about her...

I'll stand by you, won't let nobody hurt you.

If you're mad get mad don't hold it all inside come on and talk to me now.

Hey, what you got to hide? I get angry too... Well, I'm a lot like you.

AND,
Rihanna, Umbrella.

When the sun shines, we'll shine together.

I told you I'll be here forever,

said I'll always be a Friend,

took an oath I'm going to stick it out to the end!!!!

IrOnIc

2010-11-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

In September my Mom drove me to pick up my new car. She was a bit irritated that she had to take me to Sandy (I'll never know why...) Anyway, when we pulled up this Man in green scrubs crossed in front of us. my mom looked at him and said to me "I know him. He is a Doctor that I used to go to." She said it 2 or 3 more times... by this point I was a bit irritated, so I said "Yep, I could have guessed he was a Doctor by his green scrubs, I'm glad you know him and thanks for the ride." It was then that she said.... "JADIE... that is Dr. Curtis and he delivered you!!!" I swear, she jumped out of a moving vehicle to talk to him! Ha Ha! It was pretty neat, and he was AMAZING. He told me I look different then when we first met, ha ha ha! He also said thanks for stopping him and told us that we made his day!

This is the OB that brought me into this world almost 30 years ago.

To date, he's delivered 9,277 something babies!

I was 1 of his first!!!

Finally, a Final Family!

2010-09-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

No need to rub your eyes... what you are seeing is real!

BEN adopted Jaden and it was final on August 24th. This was our AMAZING Attorney

Stephen J. Buhler
Our first FAMILY picture!
Judge Iwasaki was so neat.

My Daddy walking Grandma.

Supporters: Boo Boo (Megan) and Aunt Alicia

Miss Jane and Jensen

The Happiest kid in the WORLD!

My beautiful Mom

My life long BEST Friends!

They support me thru EVERYTHING in my life!

Her comes the tears!

Support from Aunt Tauna (Jaden's biological Aunt) was the BEST feeling ever.

Aunt T and Jaden

My Grandparents with my Boys!

Grandpa Ralph and Grandma Barb!

Us with all the Grandparents!

The sun was sooooo bright!

Family! YEP... I am lucky!

God, Thank you for blessing me.

I love these Boys!

A moment of thought, caught by a camera!

Fake or Real smiles?

REAL BROTHERS now that they have the same Dad!!!

BEN & Jadie are proud to announce the birth of their 1st born!

A Boy named Jaden came into this world Jan 10th, 2002

he weighed 9' 8" and was 22 1/2" long.

Daddy and Mommy and Baby are doing GREAT!!!

Proud Mom & Baby!

Proud Dad and Baby!

Mama's Boys!!!

This picture makes me feel so happy

that I get butterflies when I look at it!

Mom and Dad

Life long lovers!

Me and my sweet Jackee!

One of the BEST day's of our lives!!!

Kennecott Company Party

2010-09-25T08:16:00.001-07:00

We are so lucky to have relatives...My Dad, my Brother and my Husband work for Kennecott. They are the most appreciative company I know! This year they had a Family company party at the Rio Tinto Stadium, it was un-believable. When we first walked in they gave us a red cooler bad with the following emergency essentials in it: Blanket, First Aide Kit and Flash Light. All of this was to keep inside of a vehicle just in-case!!! Then... EVERYTHING, I mean EVERYTHING was free. Concessions, ANYTHING...NO LIMITS at all FREE!!! Here are some pictures of the incredible night.

Our CRAZY boys!

Waiting in line for FREE face painting!!!

Jaden's SPIDER
Jack's SPIDER
Jensen's SPIDER
It's so strange to me that all 3 boys asked for SPIDERS,
they were all painted at the same time but by different people
so it wasn't like they were saying "I want what he got."
It's so crazy how they think alike!!!
FREE Clowns giving out FREE balloons of our choice!

FREE coloring books, crayons and tattoos from the

Fire Fighters and EMT's!!!

What a FUN (did I mention FREE???) NIGHT!!!

Grandma and her Boys!

Grandma and Jampa with the Boys!!!

US!!!

My Mom Rocks!

2010-09-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Long story short... Ever since the engine in our car blew, Ben has been riding the motorcycle to work and I've been driving the truck.
A few weeks ago we had a major hail/rain storm. Ben called me from our God Mom's house in West Jordan, asked me to come get him. He told me he was going to park the bike in their garage and we'll pick it up when the streets are dry!!!
Because I am such an early bird and so is Kim... I was telling my Mom that I wanted to get the bike but I didn't want to go at 6:30pm when Ben is off work. Later, she called and said "come get me, I'll drive the bike home." I was a little hesitant but thought... she can do anything and she's good at everything so, I jumped in the truck and off we went!
It was so funny because she kept acting like she didn't know what she was doing. Kim & Lori were freaked out, ok... I was too but only a little bit. Then it happened, she wiggled her nose and off she went like she's ridden her entire life! Here are some pictures I took of the event! :)

Turning out of the car-less subdivision towards...

BANGERTER!!!

Lori told her to take the back roads and ONLY the back roads.

This is how well she listens! LOL

Cruisin'
She really is amazing!

She decided to drive by Sheila's so Jaden could see

just how cool his Grandma really is!!!

Thanks Mom! I was in bed by 7:00!!!

Fallen Officers Ride 2010

2010-09-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

Ben and I decided last minute to meet up with our Friends from work and honor our Brothers & Sisters in BLUE that have given their life in the line of duty!

Best Friends, Husband & Wife, Dad & Mom and

Bike Buds!

Some Friends from work!!!
Linda on the Harley she won at the last ride!!!

Holy Moly!

Look at all those Bikers...

Pictures DO NOT do justice to the amount of Bikes & Bikers that were there!

It was so cool to ride from Timp Harley in Lindon

to the State Capitol and not have to stop for any red lights or stop signs!

Stan and a whole bunch in front of us!

The most Beautiful thing I'd seen yet that day,

Our American Flag in the middle of downtown state street!

There it is...

The Utah State Capitol, our final destination!

The 3 amigos parking!

Stan, Benj & Linda

Here was our group!

We've all met at Timp Harley, we've ate, we've BS'd, we've ridden as a huge group to the

State Capitol and now we meet and the Fallen Officer's Memorial... bring on the EMOTIONS!

Here is a Hero... Transportation Officer Stephen Anderson

He was part of the Corrections Family at the Utah State Prison.

He was murdered June 25th, 2007 with his own gun, by a monster.

A more recent loss, Jan. 5th, 2010

Deputy Josie Fox shot and killed

during a traffic stop.

A Friend and Co-Worker of my Mom's

Airport Police Sgt. Jim Faraone

was killed in a traffic accident while on duty September 18th, 2001.

After a moment of silence, bagpipes and a 21 gun salute

Doves were released to fly around us on such a beautiful day.

There are many more that have laid their lives down fighting to protect us, for our safety and our freedom.

Benny's Birthday

2010-09-25T07:50:00.001-07:00

August 17, 1983 the most amazing man was born. In 2006 I first met him, in 2008 we became BEST Friends and in 2009 we were married!

This year we celebrated a few times...

Here are some pictures from our amazing dinner at Market Street Grill with Family!

Ben, Me & Jaden (Jaden was the only 1 of our Boys that came to dinner.)

Waiting with some of our FAVORITES... Kim & Lori
My Dad being silly for Jaden!

Having fun, wasting time...

Jaden was our little pro photographer!

3 generations... Grandma, Dad & Me

Mom & Son

Ben with his Parents.

The WHOLE gang!

Grandma and Jaden playing with my camera.

He was so stuffed BUT excited for cheesecake!!!

On the actual 17th I invited my Mom and Dad over and mande a huge Chinese spread, Ben's request!

I didn't take pictures but I promise... it was so good!

AND... of coarse Ben can't be simple Simon when it comes to Birthday Cakes. Normally I call up Shaunie, tell her what I want, and *P*R*E*S*T*O* it's done! So, I attemptetd to be creative... I failed BIG TIME!

Daddy & Jaden getting ready to make a wish!

I bet Jaden's wish is: No more bee, wasp or hornet stings. See the mud on his thumb?

And... he blew both out at the same time!

Hopefully whatever his wish, it'll come true!

I hope your birthday was good babe!

Miss Matis

2010-09-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

We finally broke down and bought a DOG!!! It took some serious compromising but we finally agreed on this beauty! She is a Pure Bread, Black German Shephard.

Meet Miss Matis, the newest member of our Family! The morning after her first night,

looks like she made herself right at home!

My cute Mom (Matis' Grandma)

Grandma picking Matis up to go see Grandpa!

Back home BUT... Matis wont get out of Grandma's car.

FINALLY a "thank you" kiss goodbye!

Jensen Dean "Nanks" is 3!

2010-08-11T08:51:00.001-07:00

Jensen was born on 8/06/07, today he turned 3!!!

One lucky thing about having 2 Moms... 2 parties!!!

Daddy and I decided to throw a Toy Story 3 bash for the

Banks/Kendrick/Winberg (and at the last minute) West sides! Here is the cake Shaunie made, she is amazing!

I love the look of "love" on Daddy's face!
Pretending to blow out the candles... with a "taste test" in mind!

BUSTED... the frosting face gave ya away bud!

We decided to let him eat all the cake he wanted.

After all, he was the "Kid of the Day!"

This is the bike we bought him last year BUT... he still loves it!Because little Mr. Thang had so many people and presents,

I decided to only post the pictures of him!

Thanks to EVERYONE who came and celebrated with us, we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you all!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A few days later Mama Alison had a party for the West's, South Point Friends and more!!!

Woop Woop for a slip' n slide on a hill!!!

Seriously... it looked so fun I wanted to hit it!!!

This is one of the few pictures I got of him holding somewhat still!!!

Big Bro Jaden pullin all the tricks!!!

Best Brothers filling up water balloons!

Best Friends

but... only for, FOREVER!!!

Jensen and Mommy! See those Pringles...well,

because we had already spent a lot on Jensey's birthday

we decided to wrap up a few $cheap gifts!

He LOVES pringles. Unfortunately for him, so does Alison!

She ate 99.9% of his birthday present from us... SAD!

Baaahaaahaaa!!!

Another AWESOME cake by Shaunie.

P.S. I called her and placed the last minute order

15 minutes before we picked it up!

I'm tellin ya, She's amazing!

This picture was Daddy's idea... I love it!

Happy 3rd Birthday Jensen Dean "N"anks! You are loved by SO MANY!

Kindergarten!

2010-08-11T08:50:00.004-07:00

On August 3rd my baby started Kindergarten. Ben and I missed seeing him go for his first day because it was the same time as Ben's surgery. Grandma Marilyn took him and took pictures however, this is the only one I have. Look how much taller he is then the other kids. Daddy Ben and I love you so much and we are so proud of you!

Ben's Burn

2010-08-11T08:50:00.001-07:00

On July 15th I received a phone call from my sweet, innocent, loving Husband.
This was how the conversation went:

Me: Hello?
Ben: Hi Babe, Um... what is our insurance info?
Me: Vehicle or Medical? (I can here people in the background) Why are you still at work?
Ben: Medical, (lady in background talking)
Me: Ben? Where are you?
Ben: I'm fine... I'm...
Me: BEN...? Where are you?
Ben: I'm fine, I;m in the ER...
Me: What? What's wrong? What happened? Are you okay?
Ben: I'm fine, I burned my hand on...

Me: I'm on my way.

Here is what I saw when I got there.

By the way, I would not have known he was in the ER if he didn't need to call me for the insurance info. So... this was the burn he received from the exhaust pipe on his motorcycle.

ER Doctor Diagnosis: Have it seen at the U of U Burn Clinic in the morning.

This was 10 days after.

Can you believe he was still telling me he didn't need to go to the Burn Clinic?

Finally... work would not let him come back without a Doctor release,

so he went to our family Doc and guess what she said... "I will not release you until you've been seen by the U of U Burn Clinic." Guess what the diagnosis was? SKIN GRAFTS! But, Ben is smart and he knows the most! LOL

Here is my goofy Husband waiting for surgery!

The graft site, his hip.

4 days after surgery, looking good. At least that's what the Doctor said!

2 weeks after... Doctor still says it looks good. YUCK!

10 weeks later... Now I'm the one saying it looks good!

What an emotional, painful, roller coaster! We are so happy to have this behind us and we are so thankful that it wasn't as bad as some of the patients we seen during our many times at the clinic.

3rd Grade

2010-08-11T08:49:00.006-07:00

I can't believe it... it happend on July 26th, my little boy started 3rd grade!!!

Who has the coolest Mom? Jaden aka Jader

is a die hard Yankee fan!

He was so excited for a "portable."

The funny thing, when I was in 3rd grade

I was in a portable too!
His Teacher Mrs. Graves
According to him this picture was all for show... he says She's mean! LOL
So excited!

Have a good day my handsome 3rd grader!

24th of July weekend

2010-08-11T08:49:00.005-07:00

The 24th of July Holiday was fun, we spent it with lot's of Friends and Family! Here is my Dad with sweet baby Lincoln!

Here is me and my hot "Bachelorette" loving buddy!

Mom & Dad

Benny and J Dean

Playin pool at the Coates'

Drivers Ed

Fireworks...

(one thing I hate about my boys growing up...

they are never around!)

And last but not least... Jensen looked up at Ben, studied him, then copied him!

It was the BEST!!!

Summer Time

2010-08-11T08:49:00.003-07:00

Gosh it's sad... here it is 2 days after the first day of FALL and I'm writing a post titled "Summer Time." Oh well, better late then never!

Here are just some random pictures from our 2010 Summer! It was one that we will always remember and for no reason other than... we made MEMORIES as a FAMILY!

Jensen Dean learned how to use chopsticks!

and... how to catch shrimp with his mouth,

and how to ignore Japanese People that mock him!

One day I came home from work to this...

Does life get any simpler?

This is my Cousin Megan AKA Boo

Either Megan or Boo... She is by far J Deans FAVORITE!

On July 17th Ben and I made a last minute decision to drive up to Bear Lake and spent the weekend with our FAVORITE God Mothers Or as our Boys call them "Fairy God Mothers" at their beautiful cabin.

Just relaxin'!

Miss Lori... So fun!

My 2nd Mom Kim showing her bite to Carma, Hernan and Julie

(Friends and Bear Lake neighbors.)

Lori spreading shit...
funny... most people just "talk" it!!!

My amazing Husband!

The last minute trip to Bear Lake was one of our BEST choices this Summer!

We sure spent a lot of Summer days SwImMiNg this year!

Am I not the luckiest Woman in the world?

I sure think so... look at those 4 BOYS!

This is what happens when you get stung by a hornet that you are allergic to!

Jack and Jensen...

I am pretty sure they were prunes all summer!

Daddy and his babies!

Jack doing a cannon bomb... ha ha 1 of about 5,000,000 that day!

Jensen jumping... he LOVED going all the way under too!

1 lucky lady!!!

I am so blessed and so thankful for these 3 boys.

Jaden final brave enough to go off the "low" diving board!

Hey, it's better then nothing!

And last but not least... Benjamin doing, uh,

I'm not sure... off the "HIGH" dive!

Camping 2010

2010-08-11T08:49:00.001-07:00

Back in July... ya, I'm way behind, we decided to pack up and head out of town for the weekend!
We went to the Boat Club at Utah Lake, not far but FUN!!!

We met up with my Brother Brady, his wife Ashley, their little boy Thomas, my Cousin Cole, his GF Chante, their litte girl Avah and our good friend Linda. What a great group! Here are some pictures of the awesome weekend!

Uncle Cole is always the little kid's HERO!

and... Chante doesn't fall too far behind!

Jackee & Mom

Jensen... "is it morning?"

Chante, Avah & Cole

My little Brother and Me!

Dinner Time!

I attempted and mastered Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler!!!

Daddy changing diapers!

Linda & Jack

Brady and Ash

Daddy and Jack

and... my FAVORITE picture of all,

Thomas & Jensen

We're gooooooin' to ALL STARS!!!

2010-07-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it!
We made it to All Stars!
We made it to State!
The boys did so good this year! My little boy is going to play in the major leagues... I KNOW IT!
Here are some pictures of an amazing 2010 Baseball Season for Riverton's Pee Wee's!!!

My BOY playing 3rd Base! "You wait until I'M ready!"
"Should I...?"

That is the BEST looking Coach, Grandpa, Dad, Husband, Son, Brother, PERSON ever!

I love you Dad!

WoW... they bond they have is amazing!

Look how Jaden looks at him!

Perfection!

That's right... he's a PITCHER and he's AMAZING!!!

*AC*C*U*R*A*T*E

Jackee, my little spectator!!!

and who could forget little Lincoln?!

WAY TO GO RIVERTON!!!

4th of July with 1 of 3 Kids, a sick Mommy & an AMAZING Daddy!

2010-07-09T10:46:00.001-07:00

This year is was the FIRST year I have missed the Riverton Parade in years. Due to my tonsil surgery and complications in the early morning hours of the 2nd, I was given a direct order from my Mom "NO PARADE TONIGHT!" What a sad day.
Later that night I promised my Mom and my sweet Husband that I would rest several times during the day IF they would allow me to attend our annual celebrations at Aunt LaRaines. They both agreed!!!
My little Jackee was with his Daddy this year. Jaden had an All Star Baseball game so, he was with Grandpa most of the day.
Here are some pictures (minus Jaden and Jack :( )... my favorite day of the year and I felt awful!!!

Daddy and Jens hangin out!

Jensen Ding and Uncle Bill playing like always!

What is so fun about a bounce house?

Benny and Aunt LaRaine!

I did break the rules and went to the fair for a minute!

My lil brother Brady pushing Jensen pushing Thomas!

These little guys love eachother!

Jensen getting his first Tatt!!!

Casper and Ben

(I was blah)

Jensen making Friends!

Sparkler time! Lovin it!

Daddy took Jaden to the fair to ride rides.

Me and Jensen laid on a blanket and watched the fireworks together!

It was an amazing show!

What a long hard day at work!!!

HAPPY 4th of JULY!!!

See ya later...NOT

2010-07-09T10:45:00.001-07:00

On the 23rd of June I had my tonsils and adenoids removed. I had cryptic tonsils and knew about it for a couple years. I had heard the older you are the worse the surgery, dumb me put it off for 2 years. Finally when I went to the ENT on a Wednesday they requested surgery for the following Friday (2 days later)! Of coarse I had to get my last beers in so I set it up for the following Wednesday! Let me tell ya... rough does not do justice for the recovery from this surgery at the age of 29! BUT... after a few set backs (normal for me haha) a lot of yucky pills and shedding 19 pounds, I am feeling good! I will NEVER have to do it again since tonsils don't grow back BUT if I had to... I could handle it! So if you need them out, do it! You feel so much better!

Summa Weddings!

2010-07-09T10:35:00.001-07:00

Weddings get a bad wrap! I think they are fun, they always make me fall in love more! Speaking of love...

The LOVE of my life!

Uncle Ben and Reagan

Aunt Jaden and Reagan

Sarah and I

My Daddy and Me!

Summer Doooooo's!!!

2010-07-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

It was Alison's idea... I promise!

Now... let's see how long I can handle this!

~ Baseball Closing Ceremonies ~

2010-06-14T06:31:00.000-07:00

YEPPER!!! Jaden's team took 2nd this year in their division!

Coach Brad aka Coach Grandpa

(This is my Dad, those little baseball players ADORE him)

Not as much as his BEST FRIEND Jaden though!

Kimmie and Jaden

Daddy and Ding BORED

Always "hammin"

Is it just me or is this the cutest picture?

Or is this one? I never denied being BIAST!

My amazing Dad again!

Coach and VP Bart Street!

(This is the usual look Bart gives me haha)

So excited!

"JOB WELL DONE"

"high five"

He is so HOT!!!

Trophies are like Christmas morning presents!

The TEAM!

Go Diamond Backs!

My ALL STARS...

Kim & Lori... They were a HUGE support to my BOY!

Family Shot

(thanks Jack for showing your "tude" can't wait to make a CD of pictures like this to show you what a shit you were at times, haha love ya anyway)

Family shot with Grandpa

P.S. Anyone see Jack? I was holding him behind me so his ugly looks

didn't ruin the picture. CLASSIC!

One HAPPY BROTHER!

and last but not least...

ONE HAPPY Mom!

FCF + Swimming= F.U.N. Memories!

2010-06-14T06:25:00.000-07:00

FCF= Favorite Cousins Forever! Gay? I know but Me, Megan & Bree like it! Jaden & MeFCF's!!!MegaPoo Bree & Jader

Jaden's favorite cousin (3 week age difference) Willow

That's my BOY!!! Hey... I know it's the low dive

but ya gotta start somewhere!

Oh God, I love this BOY!

Willow, high dive... Jaden, low!

These 2 compete in EVERYTHING!

Dare Devil Megan... You go girl!

Favorites even though they both have "cooties" at this age!

Gotta love summer!

MaMa Jan...

2010-06-02T13:24:00.001-07:00

Well... If this doesn't have Mama's name written all over it! (No pun intended!!!)
A few months ago my BF Alicia (aka, Sister) went to Provo ti visit Mama Jan's grave. When we got to the site there was nothing but a tiny piece of plastic that simply said her name, birthday and the day she died. It was hard to swallow, She was so incredible and we needed a "Headstone" that would stand out like no other.
As we left the cemetery Alicia and I decided to go "shopping" but not the kind of "shopping" we normally do. We were in search of the perfect headstone. P.S. Not the best "shopping therapy" but we made the best of it!!!
We walked into the little empty place full of granite, cement, dirty bathroom, filthy men, huge dogs, etc. I have to admit, it was pretty intimidating at first. Like so many other "Ma & Pa shops" the first impression was so far off! After lot's of looking and explaining to the amazing man that worked there, Brett. We figured it out!!! With a little money (Pun intended) a drawing, and all the necessary items... OUR creation was ready and in place for Memorial Day!!!
I know she LOVES it. I could feel her with us the day we picked it.
For such an emotional task, She held our hands and told us what she wanted.

To Mama,
I think about you every day. I love the bond that we developed and I will forever cherish it. Thank you for bringing me and Alicia back together and assisting us to be each others BEST FOREVER FRIENDS. I know you know but... She is doing AMAZING things for everyone. I love you to the moon & back. Don't forget to "keep" poppin' in on My little Family.

Alicia,
Thank you for being THE BEST FRIEND I could ask for. I love you more then you'll ever understand. Thank you for always standing by me. Even when you don't agree with things I do...you are there and I know you will catch me if I fall!

I love you to the Moon & Back...FOREVER!!!

It's Wednesday AGAIN?

2010-06-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

I'm so thankful today is "Wordless Wednesday"... I have SO much to say but no vocabulary!

~ENJOY~

It's.......WORDLESS Wednesday!!!

2010-05-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

My Prayer...

2010-05-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you God for the Children of mine,

Who teach me things that blow my mind.

They entertain themselves in the funniest ways,

I pray the innocence they possess NEVER goes away.

I pray they will grow up and be smart

And I pray that they will NEVER grow apart.

I pray that they will call home,

Whenever they are near a phone.

I pray that they NEVER feel alone.

I hope they turn to you thru guidance and prayer

And know that YOU & their Parents

Will ALWAYS be there.

It's Wordless Wednesday!!!

2010-05-05T10:12:00.001-07:00

My Mama!

2010-05-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

I am writing a little tribute to my Mama! For Mothers Day...? Because She has been faced with a small trial...? Because I think the WORLD of her...? Because She is my BEST Friend...? OR Because She is an AMAZING Grandma...? The answer: ALL THE ABOVE!!!

My Mom is a never ending song in my heart of comfort, happiness & being. Sometimes I forget the words but, I'll ALWAYS remember the tune!

I want to tell you some things about my Mom that I think are the most SPECIAL! Also, I have added some of my FAVORITE pictures of Her & of coarse... ME & HER!!!

So... Sit back, relax and ENJOY the ride!!!

She is ABSOLUTELY breath taking!

It is the BEST compliment when people say to me

"You look just like your Mom."

The love she has for the MOUNTAINS & OCEAN are incredible.

Her heart is BIGGER than this pancake!

Her love for horses (actually ANY animal) is the sweetest.

They are ALL her babies.

She is my BEST FRIEND.

She would give you the shirt off her back, a cold beer,

her last $dollar or WHATEVER you desired.

She loves me for me & doesn't judge the bad things I do too harshly ;)

She is an AMAZING cook and has taught me everything I need to know, to cook just like her.

She will come with me wherever I go & EVERYONE loves her.

She has taught me so much. From being a Mom, a Wife, a good House Keeper, a Cook, but... most of all she has taught me right from wrong and how to be a better person.

She is my ROCK!!!

She'll pick me up, dust me off, hold me while I cry, then put me back on my feet.

She is a GREAT Wife.

My Dad & Her make the CUTEST Couple!!!

Just when she thought her work was done...

She became a Grandma at 44 years young, AND

just like EVERYTHING else... she has MASTERED it!

Even the Grand kids that aren't hers think she's the bomb.

She SPOILS the crap out of EACH of my Boy's

BUT... She never plays favorites.

Her love for life is apparent to everyone she meets!

Without Her, my Boys would miss so many FUN things.

She is someone who dreams great dreams for me,

but she lets me chase my own dreams
and still loves me the same!

I had to add this picture because it's one of her FAVORITES!!!

I added a few songs to my play-list that remind me of my MOM!

#1: The Wind Beneath My Wings.

#2: Nothing Compares TO You.

#3: Your The Inspiration.

#4:Have I told you lately.

#5: Hero.

"I love you FOREVER, I'll like you for ALWAYS,

as long as I'm living my Mommy you'll be!"

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-04-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

What is this World coming to?

2010-04-21T13:31:00.001-07:00

I know I have threatened this before... BUT it's time!!!

Send me your email in a comment OR on Facebook!

I'll wait a week or two before closing!

P.S. Like I said before... I don't care who you are, if you read my blog and you tell me your name I WILL add you! I just don't want any CrAzY People reading my life!!!

"Fishing should be our Last Name"

2010-04-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Ben, Jadie, Jaden, Jack & Jensen (Banks) aka: Fishing. Our little Family LOVES fishing, in case you have noticed!!! So with this beautiful weather, we loaded up and took our 2nd trip of the year!

Lil' Jack~ee, don't let him fool ya... he doesn't sit very long!!!

Jensen decided he wants to take after his Great Grandpa Ralph

and become a rock collector!

When you try, try again...
And, when you get sick of ROCKS... move onto WORMS!!!

Yes sir ee! I am the only 1, well my pole... was the only 1 to catch a fish.

I casted out...ran to the bathroom & came back just to see Ben reeling in MY fish!!!

Since we catch and release in the early part of the season, we decided to give a cute old man our fish.

Jensen transported it in the back of his bike!!!

Jensen loved this tunnel!

Me... (picture taken by our little Guy!!!)

Since my Awesome Cousin Windi always lets Jaden come play at her house... I decided to take her Kids, Bridger & Willow fishing! Her they are making poles out of sticks!!

Fun, Fun, Fun!!!

Willow accessing the situation!!!

Brandon ( a cute little Boy that plays on Jaden's baseball team)

He caught this crawdad and starting yelling... "it's a Mom, she has eggs."

Sure enough... there were TONZ!!!

This is my little Boyfriend again. Every time I see him I lean down and point to my cheek,

without missing a beat he gives me the wettest, stickiest, sweetest smooch!

Daddy (dreaming I think) and Jensey

This was the funniest!!!

Jensen decided he would fish out of Daddy's chair...

Which only led Daddy to fish out of Jensen's chair!!!

Ending another awesome fishing trip!

Our little helpers... Bridger, Jaden & Willow!

There is NOTING better then ending a hard day of fishing

swinging with an awesome Grandma (My Aunt Sharon)

WARNING: This will NOT be the LAST fishing post!!! I do this only for my journaling, I hope you don't become too bored with these posts!

Love, ME

Our NEWEST photographer...

2010-04-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

So, you know how Kids have a million toys! Why is it that NOTHING is as good as Mama's stuff???!!!

Introducing Photos (Mostly BORING) by our Jensen:

Jack being a great poser!

The furnace... who wants to forget what that looks like? LOL
His milk sippy!!!

Our recycling bin!

Jack on the phone with Grandma Marilyn!

The laundry room!

Jaden

Buzz Lightyear...

Grandpa Steve!

Daddy coming down the stairs!

And last but not least... a view of our stairs!!!

Way to go little Guy!!! You captured EVERYTHING perfectly! I love you to the moon & back!

Another journaling ONLY blog!!!

First Fishing trip of the year!!!

2010-04-19T08:53:00.001-07:00

Ben and I both put in for the Deer Hunt this year! With our tags we got our FISHING licenses. As most of you know... our lil' Family LOVES to fish! Last Sunday we decided it was time to get out. Here are just a few pictures of our fun time...cut short by someone dying ie: Ben getting called out!!!

Jader's,

Jack~ee ie: Mr. Happy to be fishing

And our little Ding Ding!!!

Look who caught the FIRST FISH OF THE YEAR...

It's that time AGAIN...

2010-04-19T08:52:00.001-07:00

Baseball officially started on April 9th. This is such a LOVE/HATE relationship!
With 4 (sometimes 5) practices a week, 2...2 hour games a week, most of them from 7:30-9:30 and miserable tired Kids the mornings after games... It is 100% HATE.

However, having my AMAZING 8 year old be the starting pitcher, throwin strikes like a maniac, MLB flashin' (literally) in my own eyes & the PROUDEST Mama & Daddy in the stands... It is 100% LOVE!!!

Here's to a ROCKIN' year my baby D Back!

Easter 2010 (better late then NEVER)!!!

2010-04-19T08:48:00.001-07:00

Easter was great, as always. Here are some pictures of our laid back day!

Coloring Eggs!

MaMa's ALWAYS make an EGG for each preson in the Family!

Jensen's Easter Bunny/Mama/Grandma stash!

Jack's stash

Jaden's Stash! My 3 BEAUTIFUL Babes!

"I found it, I found it, I found the GOLDEN egg!!!"

"Me too..."

I'd have to say that GOLDEN egg was worth it... $5.00

Thanks Grandpa & Grandma (wink~wink)

Our Easter Family picture minus Daddy who had to work!

Smiles from the Simple things in life!

2010-03-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Last Friday Ben & I decided to take the Boys to the Mayan for dinner! Who would have thought they would appreciate it so much? Here are some fun pictures of our ADVENTURE!!!

Waiting for the resturant to open!Jaden & Jack climbing all over this cement snake!

All BOY... these 3 are!

Jensen Ding climbing on the fountain that says
"Please do not climb on Fountain"
LOL

Still waiting!

FINALLY we are seated!!! Front and center for the show!!!

Jaden & Dad being silly!

My 3 babes watching the DIVERS!!!

We had so much fun. It was seriously so easy to put a smile on ALL 3 BOYS faces!

FYI: Kids meals are $7.25 a piece. My suggestion... go full!!! Just teasin'!

They are how old???

2010-03-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

TWENTY years ago... seems like yesterday! I remember every little thing about the day and the 8 months leading up to it. I remember every emotion and every little detail about each one of these Girls.

March 3rd, 1990

Megan was born first at 6lbs 12oz, 21" long.

Bree was second, 5lbs 10oz, also 21" long.

These Girls are my Cousins! They were like my own babies though. Their Mom is my Favorite Aunt... Sheila! She said when I was 10 I knew each Girl's cry. I knew when they wanted food, needed to be changed, were sleepy or just wanted to be cuddled! I remember begging my Mom to let me sleep over every moment I could. Aunt Sheila & Jason would go to bed and I'd lay there hoping for 1 of the babies to make sound. The minute they would... I'd run into their room and bring them into my bed with me. It was with them that I learned how to really love and nurture babies. At the time I knew I'd love them FOREVER, I just didn't know when I closed my eyes they would be 20!!!

Here they are NOW! Aren't they BEAUTIFUL!

Happy Birthday Megan & Bree!!!

I love you Girls so much! Don't ever, ever forget it!

P.S. Hands off these hotties... they are my babies!

Potty Training for the LAST time!!!

2010-03-02T17:42:00.001-08:00

In the beginning of February Jensen spent 6 days with us! During these 6 days we decided it was time to potty train! I know he is only 2 & 1/2 years BUT, we are SICK of diapers! Last year about this time we bought a little potty and have had it in the bathroom so he could get used to it! I've even had underwear for him for months!

Just learning... YES the potty was in our room for a few

days ONLY because I was putting him on it every 15 minutes

in the beginning! We don't want any pee/poo pants!!!

1 month later...

He is telling us "potty" when he needs to go & NOW...

he stands up!!!

HOWEVER...

This is the aftermath of standing!

Gotta LOVE my Boy's!

What a month will GROW!!!

2010-02-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

1 month ago today I bought these cute little "THINGY'S" for the kids! I didn't expect them to grow because I just don't have a "green" thumb BUT... my Boys must!

January 21st, 2010

Our 3 BALDIES

2 weeks into the process!!!

Here's Jensen's!Jack~ee's!Jaden Bugs!

AND NOW................................................................

What a month has GROWN!
Jensen's!
Jack~ee's!

Jaden's!

I hope you enjoyed our pet's as much as we have! I think they will be due for a "haircut" soon, we'll be sure to post pictures!

P.S. If you are a Mama or a Daddy, these fun little things were bought at Michaels Craft Store for $1.00 , that's right... $1.00!!!

Mama Banks 65th...uh wait...56th Birthday Bash!

2010-02-14T20:16:00.000-08:00

On February 12th, 65 years ago Ben's Mommy was born! On February 14th, 2010 Lydia & I threw her a party! Throughout this post I will reveal "65" things I love about my Mama-in-law!

Our Birthday Princess & her KING!!!

1: Mama ALWAYS participates and makes any party FUN! x 5!
2: She is an AWESOME Wife! x 5!

Mama's FAVORITE food is NACHOS so here wa our spread!

3: She is an AMAZING Mom! x 5!
4: She CREATED 2 of my BEST Friends... Benj & Lydia! x 5!

Here was my PATHETIC attempt at the cake!

5: She has taken me in and TREATS me just like her own! x 5!

6: She helps so many little kids with their SPEECH and she loves all of them! x 5!

"Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you..."

That was Mama singing (I told you she'd the LIFE of every party!)

7: She LOVES her Kid's Babies! x 5!
8: And, she LOVES mine! x 5!

Making a wish with the help of Byzee

9: She offers her home to ANYONE & EVERYONE (hee hee) in need! x 5!
10: She has been an AMAZING support to me with anything I throw at her! x 5!

Lee & Steph, just few of our GUESTS!

11: She has little ways of making me feel so GOOD about myself! x 5!
12: She DOESN'T judge! X 5!

Lauren, Marshal & Walker, Grandma,

Jaden, Jensen & Stephan in the background!

13: She is 1 of the MOST INCREDIBLE Women I have EVER met! X 5!

Happy 65th Birthday, I love you!

These are a few of my FAVORITE People!

2010-02-14T20:00:00.000-08:00

All I can say is: I HIT THE JACKPOT when I met this Family!!!

I love you Mama Sharee... I will FOREVER!!!

Valentines Day in the Banks Home

2010-02-14T19:55:00.000-08:00

St. Valentines Day, February 14th: A worldwide celebration of LOVE and ROMANCE, marked by giving red roses and chocolate hearts or by sending valentines.

Jadie's Valentines Day, every day: Remembering how lucky I am to have a WONDERFUL Husband and 3 AMAZING Boys. Constant thoughts about my Family & Friends. Always feeling loved & always sharing love.

This year along with the Sports/Spiderman/Toy Story cads from the boys,

I decided to make the Grandparent's & special People in our lives fridge magnets.

I think they turned out pretty cute!

I also made some fun pink Valentine cereal treats:

Benj had to work ALLLLLL day but, he gave me my present early. I got a brand new desktop computer fully equiped with picture/video editing software! I was so excited!
He also came home with flowers and a sweet card!
Valentines 2010 was awesome!

It's a...

2010-02-11T10:09:00.001-08:00

On Monday February 8th, Stephan & Lydia found out the are having a...

Most everyone knows Lydia AKA Lee Laa & I are Best Friends and have been for a long time now! Well, with a BESTie like Lee a lot of extras come with the friendship.

1. I get to be close to her little Byron

2. I get to spend time with her and her cute Hubby Stephan

3. I ALWAYS have someone to talk to when I need

4. We can always reconcile any arguments we may have

5. I get to be a part of the New Baby's life (who I have already claimed as my Valentine!)

I was so blessed by Lydia and Stephan to have the opportunity to attend the Ultrasound.

I watched how happy Lee & Steph were, and even captured a few shots of their BLISS!

BUT... hands down the BEST part, I got to see my new Nephew's heart beat, his arms and legs move and see that he is a tiny but growing HeAlThY Baby Boy that I can't wait to meet!

I was so thankful to share such an amazing moment with 2 important people that will always be in my life!

This picture is my FAVORITE!!!

Lee is calling Mama to tell her "It's a BOY" and,

Stephan is admiring his new baby's pictures!!

CONGRATULATIONS you two. I LOVE YOU!!!

Well Child Check Up's

2010-02-01T19:39:00.001-08:00

On Monday February 1st Ben and I took our Boys for their 8 & 5 year check up's.
This blog is more for my own journal, I wanna remember how little (BIG) they were!

Jaden getting weighed.

No wonder I can't hold him anymore!

He is 73 pounds, thats 90th %.

Here is our cracker, Jackee.

He seems so skinny to me because he is tall.

Jack weighed in at 35 pounds, 75th%.

Jaden getting his eyes tested! 20/20...

Thats our PERFECT Boy!

Jackee getting his eyes tested... 20/40.

Doctor Cathy told us that his eyes are still developing so not to worry!

Benj & I are the luckiest Mom & Dad,

look at these 3 cuties!

I LoVe our Doctor!!! Here she is explaining to Jaden where he is on the charts. By the way... he is 55 inches, thats 4' 6", 98th%!

Jackee is 46 inches... 3' 8", 97th%!

Here is the WORST part of check ups, 2 shots and a finger poke... Jack wanted his Daddy to comfort him.

We are so lucky to have Ben in our lives!

When it was time to go, Jack was STILL crying and kept screaming "I can't walk!"

Well Daddy Ben is a sucka for Jack, he carried him all the way to the car!