THE HANKS

Finally - SNOW

2012-01-31T15:02:00.002-07:00

We finally got enough snow to build a decent snowman!

Josh, Dawson, and Marissa built this Statue of Liberty snow woman!

I love it! They have such creative minds.

The base of the snowman is a basketball rolled in snow - clever!

Marissa has been so disappointed to not have been able to build a snowman all winter - so this was such a treat for her. She stayed outside for hours!

Tanner's Birthday and Baptism

2012-01-31T10:41:00.002-07:00

Tanner turned 8 on Jaunary 14,2012! It was a great day!

3 basketball games in the morning.

Then a baptism at 4pm.

And then a party after!

Big day but so wonderful!

We couldn't find the best place for a picture when the sun was so bright. Here is the best picture of our family on this special day! At least everyone's eyes are open!

Such a handsome boy! He was so excited to be baptized!

We had almost both JD and I's whole family in attendance. It was amazing. We are so blessed with such supportive parents, siblings, and grandparents. The Spirit was definitely bearing testimony to each of us that this was what Tanner should be doing!

I'm so grateful for such an amazing son. Tanner is a passionate, energetic, kind, loving, talented boy! I can't wait to watch him grow into a man and the leader I see in him.

A New Year

2012-01-09T09:45:00.002-07:00

This year, 2012, I am going to try a lot harder to be

like Him.

And focus more on this.

My goal is to have the Spirit in our home more.

To visit the temple regularly (hopefully once a month).

To continue reading the Book of Mormon.

To pray as a family daily.

And to be HAPPY and ENJOY this time of my life.

2011-12-13T09:59:00.012-07:00

It's been SOOOOO long since I updated this blog! I feel so behind! Maybe I will attempt to catch up but for now I'm just gonna write a small update on each of us.

J.D. - hmmm what can I say - he is one busy guy! He has tons of responsibility at work and church and at home. He is still teaching AP Calculus at American Fork High School. He teaches on A days and teaches 4 classes - which means he does not get a prep hour. Which means he preps after school and grades those "lovely" tests till the wee hours of the night. Boy do we love test week! He is an amazing teacher and dedicated to what he does. J.D. is also still working at the Alpine School District office as the Secondary Math Specialist the other half of his time. So he goes there on B days. Since he loves his students so much - before work starts at the district at 8am he goes in to the high school to give extra help to the kids at 7am. There is a new state core for math that he is a huge part of implementing to Alpine School District. So meetings and more meetings and stress and more stress! Don't know how he keeps it all together! Then there's his church responsibility as Young Mens President. We are going on 3.5 years of this calling! WHEW-what more can I say to that! And then he's still the best daddy is the world. The kids rush him every night when he gets home! I'm really very proud of him - wish I could help him more with all his STUFF !

Joshy-Poo! I mean JOSH! I can't believe my baby boy is 12! He received the Aaronic Priesthood in August - so he's passing the sacrament now! He also started Jr. High School :( He is playing the trumpet in the band. He got an IPod touch for his birthday (which he paid half of), and he LOVES to play with it all the time. Still playing soccer, basketball, football and playing the piano! We definitely keep this kid busy! He had an osteochondroma on his knee - it a bone tumor (non cancerous) on the side of his knee and it was really bothering him. So a week and half ago he went in for surgery and 45 minutes later his little "nodule" (I LOATHE that word) was gone! He has about an inch long scar but I think it will fade! He was off his leg for about 3 days but now back to his active self! He's doing honors english and history and is in algebra as a 7th grader! He's got his Daddy's genes.

Dawson - the back flipping 5th grader! Dawson is 10 now and is the best babysitter. He is really attentive and helpful. In this picture of him, he got his sisters bathed and ready for bed before JD and I got home from a date! He's also getting really good at backflips on the trampoline. He and his friends are outside even when it's freezing! Dawson is still playing soccer, basketball, football, and playing the piano too! He's a social kid and loves having friends over.

Tan the Man! He is turning eight in a month and is excited about getting baptized on his birthday! Wahoo! This picture is funny because we got a few mice this year (blah) and so we caught all of them right in a row. We didn't know that would happen so fast and easily. Well Tanner was the only one that wasn't totally grossed out and freaked out (besides JD of course). JD was at work and one had been sitting there under the sink dead all day (EWWW), so when the boys got home I wanted them to take it to the trash. Tanner was the bravest! Go Tan! He got it in the dust pan and then threw it in the trash and then took it out! Tanner is my sports FANATIC (and that's saying a lot - because all the boys in the house are pretty fanatic). JD let him do fantasy football this year - oh boy. Tanner is in heaven - he know everything about every team and player and game. Crazy! He loves to watch and play football and he can keep up with his big brothers and their friends just fine. He is really big for his age - he's almost caught up to Dawson in height and they are almost 3 years apart! He is taking piano and he has really done well. He's also a great soccer player and he gets to start basketball this year! 3 basketball teams to watch, oh and of course JD is coaching all three!

Marissa is finally 4 years old! I say finally because we've been hearing about it since she turned 3. She had a great birthday party in November with her friends and cousins. Now she's old enough to play soccer and go to preschool but she doesn't get that she has to wait for several more months till that's going to happen! So hard to explain! She is a feisty but sweet and adorable little girl. She loves her sister and is good to her most of the time. She sleeps on the top bunk now that Brielle is in a big girl bed. Marissa loves her puppy and Toodles gets to cuddle with Riss every night! Marissa did dance during the summer and then we signed her up again for fall. She had a recital last week and can I just say "OH MY GOODNESS". She was so adorable. We were worried she would be really shy and not do it but we were so wrong. She got up there and stood with a HUGE smile on her face and her hands on her hips waiting for the music. Then she did the whole 1 minute song with that big smile and didn't miss a beat! I was amazed. It was really fun to watch her!

And then there's sweet little Brielle! This girl can just melt your heart. She is the cuddliest girl ever. She loves to hold Marissa hand in the car while we drive. She likes to get real close to my face and hold my hand when she climbs in bed with me every morning. And all of the sudden she's becoming quite the Daddy's girl too. Brielle copies whatever Marissa does (good or bad). She is learning new words every day. She loves to watch Jake and the Neverland Pirates. She comes up and says "Jake" but it sounds like drink, so she'll pull you over to the computer to turn on her show. She LOVES dogs. None of my kids have been so dog friendly - I guess it's because she's growing up with one. But she just has no fear and goes up to all dogs and hugs them and grabs their faces - we have got to be careful with this girl. She loves to play with Marissa tea set, especially if someone is there to sip tea too! Oh and the picture below - who gives a chocolate SEE's sucker to a less then 2 year old? Seriously - it was everywhere - thanks Santa!

And then there's ME! I'm just trying to keep up with everything that's going on around here. I have been doing a Jillian Michael's work out video (don't laugh) for 3 months. Not because I'm overweight - but I wanted to tone up and I love to exercise. It's been good for me and my abs are slowly getting back to what they were before 5 babies destroyed them! I don't do too much for myself - it's just not that time of life yet - I take care of everyone else right now - and that's just the way I want it. I received a 3rd calling at church last month. I teach Relief Society once a month, I do Cub Scouts for the 8 year olds, and now I am the Young Women Camp Director. Yeah - that was a little scary and overwhelming but I'm excited too. Camping is one of the things I love - so this will be good and I know I will learn a lot as I prepare for all the young girls in our ward to go to camp for a week in June. I recovered great from my hip scope I had done in August. Crutches for about a week and some physical therapy and now I feel almost 100%. I felt inspired to read the Book of Mormon again and do it by the end of the year (I started in November). My testimony of it's truthfulness has increased tons. I learn new things every time I read it and I know that it is the word of God and another testament of Jesus Christ. I feel so blessed - even though I may seem crazy and frazzled at times - this is exactly what I've always wanted!

Josh is the Hope of America

2011-06-09T21:02:00.004-06:00

Hope of America Award

Presented with honor to

Joshua Hanks

who has demonstrated during this school year capacity for leadership, ethical and moral character and outstanding academic accomplishment.

May 2011

(Presented from Kiwanis International)

This is an award we knew nothing about. We got a call on Friday afternoon (May 20th) telling us that Josh was going to receive this special award on Tuesday evening. We didn't know much about it till the actual presentation. What can I say - I'm a proud Mama! There were 3 kids chosen from each of the three 6th grade classes. So 9 kids out of over 100 kids were chosen for this special honor. Here is the speech he wrote and presented at the award ceremony.

"One thing that has made me be a good student is my parents, who taught me the importance of education and supported me in my schoolwork. My mom has helped me with all of my projects that I’ve had to do. My dad helps me with my regular homework when I have questions about something.

Second, is a book I read called, Way to Be, by Gordon B. Hinckley. It said, “One of the most important things in your life, is education. You need all the education you can get.” I took that and made it my confidence builder. I’ve always liked the feeling of learning something new, and it has always been my goal to graduate from BYU and have a good job and family. I know I will have to work hard to reach that goal, so I do my best in everything. That is what inspires me to be a good student and leader at my school."

Mrs. Pangan (Josh's teacher) presented Josh by reading a poem about him.

J Joy to teach

O One who gives 100 percent in all he does

S Strives to be a good example

H Has high standards

U Upstanding scholar

A Admired and respected by all

Mr. Brooks (principal), Josh, and Mrs. Pangan.

Josh is really a GREAT kid. He is an excellent student, a friend to everyone and respectful. I like how he looks people (especially adults) in the eye when talking. I am so glad he's my son and very proud of his excellence at Bonneville!

Dawson is 10 and JD is 38

2011-05-24T21:09:00.007-06:00

I can't believe it's been 10 years since Dawson joined our family. Time sure flies. This kid is amazing and I love him so much.

He is the best babysitter and soooo good to his sisters! He knows how to have a good time and is such a good friend. I like that he wants to hang out with me and enjoys going on walks with me. Awesome lawn mower and gardener. Good student and great athlete! I am so glad Dawson is in our family!

Geo caching with some friends for his birthday party!

Yeah this was a bit messy - kids loved it but it was a bit much for me to handle as I'm watching all the flour go everywhere.

He wanted drums really bad, but our house will not accommodate that big of an instrument - so we got him an electric one. It's a Yamaha and it's pretty good quality. He has fun with the different beats. He and Josh were working on "Teach me how to Jimmer". That was fun!

JD - oh how we love him! We had a fabulous dinner on his birthday. He did have to help quite a bit but it was worth it. He grilled the tri-tip steak - yum, we cooked artichokes - yum, I baked the asparagus- yum, some rice (didn't really need that after all), and some rolls! Holy Cow - JD and I didn't even eat the brownies and cake that night - we were soooo stuffed! It was awesome. Marissa had her own artichoke for the first time - loved it. She was so funny as she started eating the wrong side.

We've decided our kids like the strangest vegetables. If you ask them what their favorites are they will tell you - artichokes, broccoli, asparagus, green peppers! Funny!

Marissa was more excited than JD - she could hardly contain herself!

And Brielle loved the brownie and ice cream!

Wondering

2011-05-17T13:09:00.002-06:00

Wondering why:

some people seem to get kicked while they're down.

Something I will never understand.

But must have FAITH in Heavenly Father's Plan.

So many people to pray for

Remember each by name

I know Our Father is listening

And I will pray Again and Again.

I am asking for prayers for my friend from high school who's husband was told yesterday that he has a brain tumor. No word yet on if if is cancerous or not. But tomorrow they will be taking out 1/4 of his brain and the big tumor. Erin is no stranger to trial. 4 years ago her 2 year old son suffered a stroke from ecoli poisoning. My heart hurts for her and her family. Please remember them in your prayers.

http://www.amundsenhouseofchaos.com/

Easter 2011

2011-05-04T14:03:00.010-06:00

EASTER SUNDAY

The Whole Gang! I love our yearly family Easter photo in the front yard.

The MEN (handsome guys!).

I like how they are all in a triangle with Simba's bum facing the camera - oh well it can't be perfect

Simba is so good with Toodles! He's like 70 pounds bigger than her but is so playful and let's Toodles jump all over him!

Randomness from the last 2 months

2011-04-27T20:44:00.006-06:00

So here's Rissy Roo at 10am Monday morning. She'd had a fever all night but wanted to play with her friend soooo bad. "I'm all better." Well after a 10 minute crying fit in the hall she came to her room where Brielle and I were playing toys, climbed in her bed and cried some more. And suddenly it was quiet - and this is what I found. Poor girl - slept for 3 hours more. Yeah - I'm not sick - yeah right - mommy knows best! Funny thing when she woke up, she asked why she had slept in those clothes (tights, skirt, and shirt) and if she could have a bowl of cereal!

Toodles the Poodle (a few weeks ago).

Ahh, the girls playing together - love these moments.

Toodles the TOOT SNIFFER. So our sweet little puppy loves bad smells - lovely! If you are ever sitting on the floor and she smells a toot - she goes right to the source. She climbs and starts digging right where she thinks the smell is coming from (yep that means the crouch). It is actually the funniest thing ever. We've all been got passing some gas now and then. Best story was when we were all kneeling for family prayer, all the sudden the dog goes to this person and starts digging at the knees - uh oh caught! Everyone was laughing soooo hard - ok it was me and that just mad it all the more funny - cuz when mom toots it's such a rarity!

Pudding! YUMMY! Daddy gave this to them and then mommy cleaned it up!

Toodles and the bath! She doesn't like it too much and she looks like a wet rat. But when the girls are in the tub - she barks and tries to get in! Weird.

This dog is such a toddler! I swear she a Brielle do the exact same things. Especially the following me around everywhere I go.

I love this baby so much. She melts my heart everyday. She loves wearing necklaces and hats and carrying around babies! OHHHH - please don't grow up.

Look closely - that is a stuffed animal but on top of that stuffed animal is a real animal. Toodles and Tanner share a bed and she loves sleeping by his head!

BON JOVI - WOW

2011-04-27T20:25:00.003-06:00

AMAZING

LOVE this picture! Jon and Richie - oh yeah!

They rocked - seriously. JD and I have been to 3 concerts in the last 10 years and this by far was the best.

I talked to a lady in our stake who travels all over the country to see Bon Jovi, and she was in the 2nd row in Salt Lake. She said this was the best she's seen in a long time. She said Jon was in a great mood and she thinks it was the crowd!

The boys had a great time! This is before the concert started. Tanner actually fell asleep during the last 15 minutes (it was pretty late for a 7 year old). We had a good laugh about that. It was so fun to watch the boys singing to every song (of course JD and I were singing too)! Such a fun time.

Now - that's what I'm talking about!

2011-04-02T14:32:00.003-06:00

Great Grandma Hanks sent our family a thank you card yesterday. We had sent her some letters and pictures and she loved it so much that she sent us a card and $15 to go and get some ice cream! What a sweetheart. Grandma Pat had written the card herself and it just about brought me to tears. See Grandma is legally blind (macular degeneration). I know she can see some but not much. To see her handwriting and her thoughtfulness and her thanking each child by name, it was awesome!

The awesomeness doesn't end there. So we took our family out to Baskin Robbins for our special treat from Grandma. Let me tell you that taking our family out all together somewhere is usually quite an adventure and not in a good way. There is usually fighting and crying and not so nice things said to each other, even when it's a fun place to go. JD and I get really frustrated and vow to never take everyone to a store or something ever again.

Well, we went off to Walmart first to get a few things, with only minor difficulties (Brielle falling and hitting her mouth on the floor and bleeding all over my shirt and her shirt). There was relative peace as we left the store (wow). Brielle was not happy in the car until I was sitting by her and holding her face to my face, with JD telling me, "I'll go home with her and you take the kids to ice cream". No! We were going to go as a family - we headed on.

Baskin Robbins, it was quite a pain getting everyone's orders in but not because the kids were fighting, just because the store is small and lots of people were there. Anyway, we all huddled around a little table enjoying our sweet treats, everyone was laughing and actually having fun! Brielle had a little sample spoon in hand and kept reaching for each person's ice cream. So she'd get some from me, then Marissa, the boys, Daddy! It was the CUTEST thing ever. I wished I had a camera. It's a mental picture I hope I never lose! But the true awesomeness was when I was holding Brielle on my lap and everyone was smiling at her, so they were looking at me, I had a picture of how heaven will be. I truly had JOY - the kind the fills your heart to the brim. The kind that makes you want to laugh and cry at the same time! Even if it was for just a few minutes - it was awesome! Now that's what I'm talking about!

Toodles the Toy Poodle

2011-03-17T20:47:00.007-06:00

WE GOT A PUPPY! Anyone who knows JD will not believe this miraculous event! My husband is what I would call a non-dog person. It's not that he hates dogs (though he has claimed that from time to time), it's the fact that they poop. Ok - so he has a running list in his mind of all the reasons why we would never get a dog. If something happened that was negative about a dog, JD would say "ok that's number 136 in my reasons to not have a dog." But me - I love dogs! Ok - I love dogs that don't bark all day and all night without ceasing. Yes we did have some neighbor dogs that would do that from time to time. There were enough complaints from neighbors that the people got rid of their dogs. I love dogs that are taken care of and get the attention they need so that they don't feel the need to bark excessively when you play with your kids in your own backyard! Ok - that's getting a little bit off topic. But it really is a miracle that JD let us get a dog. We are all thrilled as can be! We are loving our toy poodle - TOODLES! She is a great dog. And the most amazing part is that JD is LOVING her too! Never thought I'd see the day! I love JD for giving our family the chance to be dog owners - it was very unselfish of him, he had to go out of his comfort zone!

Brielle is 1

2011-02-28T13:19:00.007-07:00

Our little angel turned 1 on February 17. It was a beautiful day. We had lots of family over and enjoyed celebrating this sweet baby in our lives.
I think she is a beauty!

Just a few of the cute faces that showed up at her party! Brielle sure had a lot of help opening her presents!
Sisters - Marissa was so excited all day about Brielle birthday but when everyone got to our house she pretty much broke down. She had a rough time sharing the lime light.
So we gave her the cake and tried to get her to eat it but nope she wasn't interested. And she ended up gagging when we tried. So we gave up but had a really good laugh while we watched her. Later, after dinner we tried again - and sure enough when no one was paying attention - she loved it!
Brielle loves her new wheels!
Unfortunately by Sunday night Brielle was pretty sick. She came down with RSV. It's been one horrible week for her. Her first week of being 1 year old was spent in misery. Poor girl. Finally after 7 days of needing to be held all the time, not eating, coughing like crazy, feeling yucky, she showed us her happy self again! We are so happy she is better.
Ok - so Josh was trying to get a good shot of her doing her new "uh oh" face. It's simply adorable. But this shot isn't so great but if you look close you can see my face is doing it perfectly!
Her we are holding each other. It's basically how we hung out all of last week. Not fun at all. Okay - I guess it is a little bit nice to snuggle with your baby but it's not so nice we she feels so awful.

What I wish I had a picture of.

Brielle is so into books lately. Seriously she brings me books all the time, she hands them to me and then says "uh uh uh", till I pick her up and read. And she has her favorite too. She loves Dr. Suess' The Toothbook. We could read for hours - but it sure makes me sleepy!

She is also just getting so fun. She lets everyone know when she is unhappy - like when she gets something taken away from her by her sister - yeah she screams. Also - she loves to play and be chased by her daddy and brothers. It is so fun to watch. She's a great bootie shaker - loves dancing. And today when JD came home from work, he came into to the kitchen and Brielle says "DA". Awesome!

I LOVE my little Brielle!

THANKFUL

2011-02-17T12:48:00.002-07:00

THANKFUL

Today I am feeling so THANKFUL.

I crawled back in bed this morning after I got Brielle down for a nap and Marissa watching a show. As I was laying there, looking out my window at beautiful Mt. TImpanogas with its snow covered peaks, I was struck with how grateful I am to be alive.

I have a huge amount of things I am grateful for, but for today I just want to mention a few.

My health - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually feeling good. I have dealt with some low times in my life where I didn't feel like this.
My healthy kids - I have seen some sad things with family and friends and the heartache it brings to have sick kids - I'm so grateful that mine are healthy and happy
My husband -JD- I am so blessed to be his wife. So glad he still loves me and even more than he did 13 years ago. So grateful that he still finds me sexy and hot even though after 5 kids things aren't exactly they way they used to be. :) So grateful for the poem he wrote to me for Valentines Day and the songs he's written for me and our kids!
The Beautiful Earth - I LOVE being outside and enjoying the beauty God has given us. The sunshine this morning after the snow was perfect!
My testimony - it's still growing and developing but I know God loves me and I know His son, Jesus Christ, died for me and I have a great love and need for them in my life.

January 2011

2011-02-02T21:33:00.008-07:00

So it's been FREEZING lately. I do NOT like it much. I guess I was outside playing on Friday - it was nice out - high 30s. But now it's getting into the single digits at night - bone chilling cold. Makes me so THANKFUL for a nice warm home to live in; with good windows, good front door, and lots of blankets. I am also thankful for my cute family. I'm posting a few pictures of what's been happening around here in January!
Tanner turned 7 years old on the 14th of January! Here is is with his Kisebach cousins! Tanner got a new bike for his birthday. It's a pretty sweet ride! As I was waiting in line to buy it - I had a dad tell me how cool it was and that someone was going to be pretty happy. And he was right.
JD was growing his hair out - he loves it long. Anyway, his goal to not get it cut till the Bon Jovi concert in March was just not a possibility. His work calls for the more clean shaven, short hair look. His boss at the district was talking to him one day and stopped mid sentence and told him, I really don't like your hair - it's just not you. Funny - she must not really know him :) I doubt she would have said that to a bald guy! I was actually liking JD's hair longer - but he looks good to me no matter what.
Brielle has been having a hard time lately. This picture was taken at 6:30 in the morning. Brielle had woken up around 5:30 and then fell back to sleep in our bed. Then Marissa woke up (highly unusual for her). So JD and I got up and I asked Marissa to stay with her while I made lunches. When I came back to check on them, Brielle had cuddled up to her sister. It was the sweetest thing.
Pretty girl!
Marissa and her friend Mara. They play just about everyday. Mara is 4 but they get a long great. Sundays are funny because Marissa is always asking if Sunday is over yet so she can play with Mara.
My little helper. Marissa loves to help me cook.
Brielle is loving her spaghetti. She kept reaching over and pulling the noodles off of Josh's plate. It was quite the mess.

And lastly, Daddy's little girl. Marissa is in love with her Daddy. It's so sweet. They were dancing and Marissa was making these cute lovey eyes at JD. I was cracking up. So now we like to ask her to show us her lovey eyes and she does this funny look. JD's been so busy at work lately. So many responsibilities at school and the district. So last week he was gone a lot - some days Marissa would only see him for a few minutes in the morning. She woke up one morning and came to me and asked "Is Daddy at the district or school?" First of all how she says district is just cute and second she is just so perceptive. Anyway she then saw a picture of JD on the computer and says "Daddy is my best buddy". So precious!

2010 Review

2011-01-11T17:24:00.005-07:00

1. What did you do in 2010 that you've never done before?

Had 5 kids

2. Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions and will you make more for next year?

No - I was going to blog weekly or monthly - see I can't even remember - but nope, didn't do very well at that. And no - I'm not going to make a New Years Resolution this year - I have goals but I'm not calling them N.Y.R.!

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes - ME! And my little sister (9 days after me). And my husband's littlest sister too! And quite a few friends too!

4. Did anyone close to you die?
No - thank heavens! Grandma was touch and go for awhile but she's still with us.

5. What countries did you visit?

No new countries but some new places. Capital Reef National Park was awesome this summer.

6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?

More patience and more money!

7. What date from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory and why?

February 17, 2010 - The birth of Brielle Alexis, probably our last baby!

July 27, 2010 - Marissa had bladder surgery and I was SCARED to death.

8. What was your biggest personal achievement of the year?

Being a mom to 5 kids and not losing my mind (I think).

9. What was your biggest failure?

Not sure - and maybe that's because I don't want to admit failure :)

10. Did you suffer injury or illness?

No - I was very healthy this year - so grateful for that. But my family has been through quite a few things. JD and his bad headaches, which he never misses a day of work or church or anything for. He struggles through. Also his shoulder was dislocated again - yucky. Marissa and her surgery. Tanner and some really nasty injuries. Dawson and stitches.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Probably our new shower and toilet downstairs (JD finished the bathroom in the spring). And this awesome computer I'm typing on! Oh and our new roof - don't like to think of the leaking that would have been taking place right now if we didn't get that.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

JD - awarded Alpine School Districts Teacher of the Year. He rocks.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Not really appalled but more sad and difficult. One of my children is struggling with his temper and it is really difficult right now and causing a lot of stress. Appalled at all of the evil in this world and all the hurt that goes on. Wish I could change that.

14. Where did most of your money go?

FOOD - feeding 7 people is quite expensive

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Having a baby - and enjoying her milestones!

16. What song will always remind you of 2010?
Hey Soul Sister by Train - Marissa singing her heart out. Gotta a Feeling by Black Eyed Peas and Represent by Weezer.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder?  b) thinner or fatter?  c) richer or poorer?

Happier - I'm not pregnant like I was last January! Definitely skinner - by like 35 pounds! About the same on the richer or poorer!

18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Just having fun - socializing more. When I have a baby I always feel very trapped in a sense. It's hard to get out and hard to do all the things I want to do but I can do those things but my mind gets very anxious and nervous. So I wish I could have gotten outside of that a lot more.

19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worrying - that's what I do best - URG!

20. Did you fall in love in 2010?

Over and over again with my sweetie! And I fell in love with my new baby too!

21. What was your favorite TV program?

Grey's Anatomy - I know, why do I watch that crap. Oh and LOST - loved it.

22. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
No - same people - just kidding - I hate no one!

23. What was the best book you read?
Hunger Games Series, The Help, and The Lightning Thief Series.

24. What was your greatest musical discovery?
My children are amazing musicians - they get that from their dad.

25. What did you want and get?

Brielle and a new bike

26. What did you want and not get?

A dog

27. What was your favorite film of this year?
Toy Story 3

28. What did you do on your birthday and how old were you?

33 - got a new bike and rode it up Provo Canyon

29. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Not sure

30. How would you describe your personal fashion concept for 2010?
I'm not too fashion savvy - I don't have money to be. My sister about died when she saw I was wearing pants that were 10 years old.

31. What kept you sane?

My JD!

I wish.....

2011-01-10T22:02:00.005-07:00

I wish I had a picture to sum up our life right now - there are quite a few that I could put on but not just ONE. So instead, I decided to put this adorable little (almost) 11 month old to represent. The word that describes our life right now is - CRAZY! But you know once again this little adorable one keeps me from actually going CRAZY. A baby is an amazing, miraculous blessing. I see in her everything that is good and worthwhile. I feel complete joy when she smiles at me. I know I can make it another day. And you know, I even feel that way when my 11 year old makes me laugh when I didn't think I felt like laughing, when my 9 year old gives me a big kiss, even when my 7 year old hands me a note telling me he REALLY does love me, and when my 3 year old wants to cuddle! I am extremely blessed - so, what if the rest is total Craziness!

Josh

2010-10-11T20:20:00.006-06:00

It's been a busy few months for this big 11 year old! I can hardly believe he's in 6th grade now and 11 years old. Where did my baby boy go?
The Hanks family has quite a few birthdays in August - so we had a big family party for all those special August kids! Josh shares a birthday with Great Grandma Hanks (right next to him). Fun times!
Josh got an electronic keyboard for his birthday this year. Daddy's idea and Daddy likes it a lot! So does Josh! It's pretty cool the things he can do with it.
The first day of school. Josh is in Mrs. Pangan's 6th grade class. So far it's been pretty good. Except for recess is before lunch - much complaints about that the first week of school but they are slowly adjusting.
Father and Sons Campout. LOTS of rain. While most of the kids hung out in the cars - Josh and his friend Miles got SOAKED! They loved it.
Geo caching with the cousins up at Cascade Springs. We have enjoyed geo caching a lot this summer.
Clear Creek is an outdoor experience the kids in 6th grade get to have. They have an overnight down by Scofield reservoir. Josh had a great time. He's still singing the songs he learned there. Even though mom was a tad nervous about it - Josh survived and it was a good experience for him.
Swinging on some rope contraption.
Piano recital. Sister Bearce is their teacher and we are so lucky to have her. She is amazing and I think the boys are liking her teaching style too. Josh is a wonderful piano player and did great at his recital. He got to play a duet with JD too - JD was more nervous then Josh. But they did super.
The boys were on a competitive soccer team this year. It was fun and there was a lot more competition. Our team didn't do so well - I think we won maybe 4 or 5 games, but we are a new team, so come spring time we will dominate! Josh played well. I think he scored 2 goals this season. He is a hussler and fun to watch!
And now, last but not least - on Saturday October 9, 2010 - Josh rode his bike 60 miles! And he did it is less then 8 hours. WOW! He, Miles and Jace, and their leaders did this for a merit badge. I am really proud of him and the boys. He said the middle was the worst but kept going. I am so impressed that these 11 year olds did this - they ROCK!
Josh is a great kid. At parent teacher conferences, his teacher had nothing but wonderful things to say about him. She said he is the student every teacher wants in their class. I love Josh - he is a light in our home and I love him so much. Oh and he's pretty funny too - he says he wants to be a comedian when he grows up! Oh boy!

Keeping up

2010-09-26T21:10:00.002-06:00

Wow - having 5 kids is really crazy. I am having a hard time keeping up. So much I want to update on. I will get to it soon - I promise!

Plus we just found our camera cord which has been missing so I have so many pictures to add too.

I really love Bear Lake

2010-08-12T20:47:00.007-06:00

Every summer for the past 9 years, my parents and siblings have been going to Bear Lake. We are so lucky because my dad's friend/boss Mark has a house up there with jet skis and 4 wheelers that he lets us use! One of the other owners of the company, Brian, has a house next door and Mark's dad has a house next door on the other side. So we all fit very comfortably. They are all so kind to let us use their houses and toys! Since those early years of there being just 8 people to this year there was 24 people and 3 dogs- we have made some great memories! We all look forward to being together and enjoying the lake.

Tanner and Cade
Josh and Dawson
JD, Marissa, Josh, Dawson, and Tanner
Edwin and Dawson - sweet castle!
Bobby and Amy - nice hat Bobby! This was Amy's first time with us - they have been dating a couple of months. She is a great person - we all loved her. Bobby left on Friday for most of the day for a golf tournament and Amy hung out with the family. She seemed very comfortable and went on a hike and to the beach and fit right in!
Marissa and Zyon!
Grandma Farrell 91 years old The siblings! Tyler - 19, Bobby 26, Me 32, Becky 29, Krista 34. Looking good!
I loved this picture - most of us out there!
Ian, Zyon, and Riss
JD and Dawson
The kids and the nintendo - Abby, Tan, Josh, Cade, Dawson
Playing a silly game and making fools of ourselves and JD sneaking a picture!
Love the big tree and the swing - hours of fun!
4wheeling fun!
The boys love that they can ride by themselves (Dawson and Josh at least)!
Cute girls and Daddy. Marissa loved the water - we were a little worried about her surgery and the water but it was great - the steri strips were still on and protected it from the water.
So CUTE!
Buried alive! We laugh when we see this because we love the movie Madagascar 2 and King Julian saying "Who would leave a perfectly good head just lying around?"
10 mile ride - fun times
Krista and I made a Bear Lake book on her computer this year for Christmas for my parents - it was so fun to see the pictures from the past 9 years and remember the funny things that have happened. Now we will have to update that book again in a few years!

It's Over!

2010-08-03T19:38:00.010-06:00

July 27, 2010 - Marissa's surgery - bilateral ureteral reimplant for vesicoureteral reflux. Yeah that's a mouthful! We got the call Monday afternoon with our surgery time - hold on to your seats - 2:15 pm. What? Really that just about put me over the edge. My 2 year old is going to have to fast starting Monday night. She can drink clear liquid till 11:15 am and then nothing! I just thought it was going to be horrible but Marissa amazed us once again. She was extremely pleasant and never asked for anything. It was truly a miracle. We got to Grandma Farrell's house to drop off the rest of the family at about 11:30. As JD and I were trying to sneak some lunch without Marissa seeing - Grandma let Riss try on some of her jewelry. What a cutie!

Here we are - ready to leave for the hospital.
Changing into the hospital jammies and being silly! It really helped her that we went to that class that took us through all the steps of what was going to happen on her surgery day.
Smiling pretty with Daddy! She liked our name tags.
Ok - so 2:15 turned into 3 and 3 turned into 3:30. Waiting and waiting - it was horrible. I felt so bad for her - she must have been so thirsty and hungry. But once again - no complaints. We had fun with the bubbles and toys.
Finally the nurse comes with the medication that is supposed to make her really out of it and relaxed. Well she did not get even half of it - she spit it out. Then the surgeon and the anesthesiologist came to talk to us around 4 - Marissa was a little bit relaxed but nothing like she should have been. And then they were ready to take her! So we walked to the say goodbye spot and Riss was clinging to me like nothing else. And then started crying and screaming and asking where we were going. It was HORRIBLE! This was not supposed to happen - she was not supposed to care. So JD pried her hands off my neck and we were both about to cry as the doctor took her. As soon as they turned the corner we didn't hear anything. (He came and told us later that she calmed right down and did great with the gas mask and everything -WHEW!)
About 6:15 they let us know that they were just about done and they would call one parent to go back when she started waking up. So about 7:30 I finally get to go see my baby. It was not a fun sight. Her scar is about 2 inches long. She was breathing really yucky from the breathing tube and it was hard to see her like that. She did down like 4 oz of apple juice in like 3 seconds when she woke up enough. Finally we got to take her up to her room about 8pm. Here we are in her room trying to help her wake up and comfort her.
The first night was horrible for her. She was VERY uncomfortable. Coming out of the anethesia, the breathing tube had made her throat really sore , and the pain from the surgery all complied into one and it stunk. Her epidural catheter they had left in but it just wasn't cutting it. Finally the nurse decided he would give her some morphine - that was about 11pm. So once that kicked in and I felt like she would be relaxed, I left to go sleep at my parents house. JD stayed the night with her.
Sleeping arrangements! I don't think JD slept much at all the two nights he spent at the hospital with her. But I am grateful he took such good care of our girl.
Wednesday morning - she would have good moments but mostly kind of out of it and not feeling well. Some fever and some itch rashes. She scratched up her torso so much - I should have cut her nails before.

The Torres cousins came to visit minus Jade. Riss was so happy to see them. We even attempted to go to the playroom. I think the walk there really wore her out though because when we got there she just wanted to sit and then her stent tube started leaking. But it was nice to have a break and see cousins! Brinley is a pro at all this hospital stuff - she has been battling leukemia for the past 2 years and is almost done with her treatments! Yeah for Brin.
Just not feeling good! Poor sweet Riss.
The whole family visiting. She was so happy to see her brothers and sister. She didn't like it when Brielle started grabbing her tubes!
Grandma and Riss! I am so lucky to have such a great mom and sisters who took such GREAT care of my boys and my baby. That was one of my biggest worries - leaving Brielle but she did wonderfully because of my good family. Big thank you to mom, Becky, and Krista - I would have been a mess without you guys. LOVE YOU!

Such a sweet picture - I had to put it in!
The Carter cousins visiting. Riss slept right through their visit. We were glad they came though!
Chowing down on nachos and gatorade! I loved their room service. She could order anything she wanted. It was wonderful.
She started feeling good Wednesday afternoon, so we headed to the outside play area. It was overcast so it was nice. She got to ride a bunch of different bikes - she loved it.
Going home - Thursday morning! Marissa was so excited to go home. She loaded up all her gifts and said goodbye! She was such a trooper - I was so proud of her.
All smiles!
Things have gone pretty well. Friday we had to go back up to get her stent out. That was NOT FUN. She had bladder spasms the rest of the day - she cried and cried on our drive home and it was just the two of us. I finally pulled over and got back there and just held her. I felt so bad. Now the only pain that really bothers her is when she goes to the bathroom - it still hurts and I hope that will be passing soon. Way to go Marissa - we love you!

Pork and Beans

2010-07-18T22:12:00.000-06:00

Surgery

2010-07-09T21:26:00.003-06:00

Well the appointment with the urologist - surgery July 27. She has stage 4 reflux. Her kidney is damaged but nothing they can do about that. She will have to be screened for hypertension every year (high blood pressure). The surgery should fix the problem - 95% success rate. It's quite an invasive surgery. 2 1/2 hours long and probably 2 to 3 days in the hospital. I'm scared and sad and worried - how do you explain this to a 2 year old? She will get to go up to Primary's for a class that helps her get ready for the surgery. They practice putting on the gas mask that will put her to sleep and take her around the hospital to get used to being there. I am very grateful for modern medicine and doctors - that is a true blessing - but I'm still scared.

Marissa Robin

2010-06-22T21:11:00.004-06:00

It's been a rough couple of weeks for this sweet little 2 year old! It all started with a really bad virus which I thought was strep throat. So we went to see the doctor - no strep just a bad painful virus in her throat with really high fevers - no fun. Since I was there I wanted to ask a question I've been wondering about for a long while. Ever since she was born she has had really bad smelling pee (I did mention this to her pediatrician at her 2 weeks or 2 month checkup - he said - pee smells bad - not funny now). Seriously at night walking past her room was just nauseating. Anyway - since she's been potty trained for 4 months I have noticed that her pee is really cloudy. Hmmm - so I brought that up to the doctor and she said well let's check it out. Urine sample that evening - bacteria showed up right away - will send sample to be cultured - so antibiotics started. I won't even get into the horrible time we have with Marissa taking medicine - just know that it is totally horrible and totally ridiculous. Allergy to amoxicillin too. URG. Since she didn't have any symptoms of a UTI (urinary tract infection) - doctor wants to make sure her kidneys are ok. Off to ultra sound at Primary Children's Hospital. Ultra sound of kidneys - shouldn't be hard - right? Marissa did not like it one bit and cried almost the whole time while the technician got all the pictures she needed. Poor kid. Bad news - one kidney is 2 cm larger than the other - what's that mean - we aren't sure but could be scarring from a UTI she's probably had her WHOLE life. Talk about a super hero who must not feel pain - I feel so bad. Anyway - next step - sedation and a VCUG at Primary Children's again. The VCUG is a catheter they insert in her and fill her bladder of with fluid and dye and then they x-ray to watch how it flows from the bladder. So the medicine they give her for the sedation doesn't put her all the way out. Totally out of it but not asleep. We had a heck of a time getting her to take the medicine - we finally had to hold her down while the nurse forced it behind her teeth till she swallowed it. That was the worst of it. Poor girl was so funny to watch. She was so loopy and giggly and then totally mellow. Well JD and I had researched online and knew what was bad and what was not so bad. So as we watched the x-rays we knew it wasn't so good. The doctor was there too and just told us she definitely has reflux of the bladder and it's probably a stage 3 or 4 out of 5. So what that means is that instead of the urine flowing out of the bladder it refluxes back up into the kidneys. Next step - we will go see a urologist at Primary Children July 6. For now she is on a maintenance dose of antibiotics to prevent any more UTIs. Some kids have to be on that low dose of antibiotics for years other times they have to do surgery. So I guess we will see what happens.

Here we are before the medicine made her loopy - she got a cool frisbee.
On the x -ray table looking at the cool light toys - distraction techniques!
After it was all done! She loved the jammies and wanted to take them home. She was still so funny - I love this picture.
Oh by the way she had to fast. I couldn't let her eat anything at all in the morning - it was torturous (probably more for me because I was so worried about it). And her appointment wasn't till 12:30pm. We had to do a lot of playing to distract her from the food. But she did great - she really didn't complain too much - what a trooper.
Still pretty wobblely for awhile afterward. We couldn't let her walk alone for a couple of hours. She bounced back pretty quick but was tired and mellow.

So that was on Wednesday the 16th. The next night I was feeding Brielle and Riss was all ready for bed so I said go downstairs and see Daddy. She heads to the stairs and next thing I hear is boom boom boom, and then crying. I'll keep this story short - broken clavical (collar bone)! But let me just say that Marissa really is tough. She has like a 30 degree break but she was using her arm. Certain movements hurt so JD thought it was just a bruise - I am so glad we went to the doctor. All they can do for her is put her in this brace. Not fun. She does have to go get it x-rayed again this Friday to make sure it is healing right since it was such a bad break.
So yeah - it's been a tough few weeks for this cute girl. But you know it isn't slowing her down one bit. I'm so worried about her running around and riding her bike and all the things she does. I'll probably have a nervous breakdown just from worrying!!

Oh how I love this little girl!

Memorial Day

2010-06-12T20:38:00.002-06:00

Just to catch up -

Here is most of the Hanks' family gathered around Robin Hanks' grave. JD's little sister. It was fun to listen to the memories that the siblings and parents have of her. She wasn't on the earth very long - but long enough to have an impact and to be missed - she'd be 29 this year.

Missing a few family members because of car trouble. But here is most of us.

Grandpa Seastrand telling everyone about the relatives that settled American Fork. JD's family has quite the legacy over there. Grandpa told of coming to the cemetery as a boy and how they would jump off the big tall headstones and see who could jump the farthest. Well....

That led to this! Yep after JD's lecture - not so much a lecture but a reminder that we don't jump or walk on the headstones because we want to show respect - Grandpa calls Tanner up to try it. Then everyone had to do it! I guess if it's ok with Grandpa then it's ok - right?

And then there's Jade and Riss finding a really cool headstone with lots of pinwheels!

Afterward everyone came to our house for some chicken that JD BBQed! He did a good job! Then off to our second BBQ at my parents house! It was a very busy day - but most enjoyable since we got to be with all of our family in one day!

A Busy Week for JD

2010-05-24T21:17:00.006-06:00

This past week has been a pretty great one for JD.

#1 On Tuesday the 18th, JD was recognized and awarded the Alpine School District's High SchoolTeacher of the Year!

I am so Proud of JD! He is an amazing teacher and it feels great that he was recognized for all his efforts. I don't really know how to put into words how he is able to be such a great teacher. But I think most of all is that he loves what he is doing. He really wants the kids to learn so he puts his best efforts into teaching them. JD is a thinker - whether it be trying to figure out a good way to present a certain concept or trying to decide how to handle a tough situation with students and parents, he puts a lot of time and thought into everything he does. I think that really makes him the man he is. I respect that about him because I'm quite driven by my emotions and sometimes don't think as much as I should. Although he has been a good influence on me and is helping me to see that thinking before acting is a better way to go!

Here are the people that came. That is JD's uncle Gary and his Grandpa and his Aunt Denise and Grandma. Gary and Grandpa were and are educators in Alpine School District. It was a great night. My dad also came to support us. Happy times!

#2 It was Cavestock at AFHS on Friday! Time for JD to be the rock star that he is for a night. It was great fun this year. JD plays the bass guitar and sings backup and also got to sing one song. It was Marissa's favorite song - Pork and Beans by Weezer. He did SOOO good. In the middle of the song Marissa and Dawson went right in front of band and started dancing and jumping. I have a video of it and it is sweet. I will try to figure out how to get it downloaded on here. We had a great time and love watching Daddy rock!

#3 And finally Sunday was JD's birthday! I made him a yummy breakfast burrito before his church meetings in the morning. And then as soon as he got home at 11:45 we gave him his presents. I think the kids and I were more excited to give him his presents then he was to get them - but that changed!

A new GUITAR! I think he really likes it!

Then we headed off to church. Came home had a nicely cooked (by JD) tri tip and artichokes (cooked by me). Then cake and ice cream. Then LOST - (a little disappointing - not the ending I was hoping or expecting) but fun to watch the last episode.

So yep - a busy week but a great one too! I love you Babe!

Family Fun

2010-05-11T20:33:00.004-06:00

It took a bit of doing and a few piles of this but

eventually we got this
and this
and this
and finally this! What fun!
Oh and just incase you were wondering. Dawson who became a Bear (Cub Scout) this month, if you ask Marissa, Dawson is not a Bear, he is a yellow boy! (I had a pretty good laugh at that one)!

Random

2010-05-04T21:23:00.002-06:00

Dawson turned 9 today! I can hardly believe that he is that old. My little blue eyed boy is growing up so fast. Here we are last week with him getting his Wolf badge.

Brielle was blessed on Sunday. She did so well - not a peep. We had almost all of our families there. It was really nice and I am so grateful that I have JD as a priesthood holder in our home to bless our children! He is good man!
Brielle and Rissy. Today I left the room while Marissa was drinking one of those Kool Aid drink things. All the sudden Josh is yelling for me. Marissa had Brielle drinking the red kool ail. Brielle had a red tongue and a red shirt. Thanks Rissy Roo.
Brielle and Quezon. My little sister's baby. They were almost 3 pounds different in birth weight but now are about the same weight. Quezon is packing it in. He is half Samoan and he is a boy so I don't mind at all the he's passing Brielle in weight! It's fun to have these two so close in age! And now that the Leuluai's are here in Utah instead of Hawaii - it's even better.

Glasses, teeth, beards, fohawks, and more!

2010-04-14T21:04:00.009-06:00

So I totally blew my New Years Goal of updating my blog every week. Let me tell you how 5 kids has really thrown me for a loop. Wow - who knew that one more would be so crazy! But totally worth it - I love my kids - they are awesome and we are having fun (most of the time)!

So here is an update on the Hanks family.

Here's my sweet husband, he's been growing a beard again for awhile. He's had to trim it a couple of times to keep it in control. I like the gray path on the right. JD has been busy busy busy. He is probably the most dedicated math teacher ever. How many teachers are so dedicated to spend 10 hours at work each day. And sometimes more - got to get those kids ready for their AP test in a couple of weeks. He only has one prep instead of 2 and does the math lab after school for an hour. He is definitely a little stressed out. He does still find time to watch most of the Jazz games and we DVR Lost and Parenthood so we can watch those after mutual on Tuesday nights. For spring break - he finally got around to sheetrocking the basement bathroom. (Yes this family of 7 shares 1 bathroom -URG). So hopefully in the next few weeks we will have the luxury of another bathroom. JD worked really hard on it with Josh as his assistant. Also during spring break JD and the kids got most of the garden planted. JD got a new tiller with our tax money and he is loving that! If you have ever seen how big our garden plot is - you would appreciate how much work taking care of it is. My JD is a stud and I appreciate all his hard work and especially his amazing ability to be a great dad. He rocks!

Josh got glasses about a month ago. He's looking so grown up. He is growing tall too. Soccer has started and Josh is doing really well. He and his brothers are also outside every day shooting hoops. Josh is really excelling at his piano. Oh and he's pretty funny too. He's always trying to make us laugh with some silly thing he does. Josh is one smart cookie - he's a thinker like his dad and a jokester too. He's exactly 10.5 years older than Brielle - she was born on his half birthday. Good kid!

Dawson is almost 9. What - how did that happen? He woke up to a tooth under his tongue the other morning. He said it wasn't even loose when he went to bed. At least he didn't swallow it! Dawson got a haircut the other day. He was so funny because he came home and told me how on Mondays he was going to do one fohawk, on Tuesdays 2 fohawks, Wednesdays spikey, Thursdays and Friday I can't remember but he had it all planned out. So far I've only seen the double fohawk once - thank goodness. He is a cute kid. So good with Brielle - he is by far the one that holds her the most (out of the kids). He also is very willing to watch Marissa for us. And he is getting really good at the piano too. He is playing some things by ear just like his dad. I don't know how they do that - it amazes me. Good kid!

Tanner is toothless. Okay not anymore because three have grown in but he has that gappy smile and cute dimples too! He is a 6 year old who acts more like a preteen. He is very athletic. He dominates on the soccer field not only because he is so much taller than the other kids but he has skill too. It's fun to watch him. And he's quite the basketball shooter too. The other night I told him that I was going to put Brielle's portable crib in his room because she was too loud for me and dad and she would wake Marissa up. So he said in all seriousness "Ok. So when she cries should I get up and take care of her?" Pretty cute! JD and I had a good laugh about that one. "Yeah Tanner - Mom and I don't want to wake up to take care of her so you do it!" Oh the things that go through those cute heads! Good kid!

Marissa is definitely a 2 year old. We have been seeing a lot of tantrums lately but also a lot of cuteness too! She is endless energy! She still loves Brielle and is always right there. If Brielle cries she always runs up to her and says "I'm here, don't worry, I'm here" in a cute little sing song voice. Marissa loves to sing. Her "I am a child of God" is so sweet. And she sings along with the radio too. I was listening to my IPOD in the kitchen the other day and she started singing along to a song I didn't know she knew. She LOVES her daddy. When springbreak was over, she woke up Monday morning and waved goodbye to JD and then sat down on the couch and said "I need my daddy." Sweet girl!

Miss Brielle is 8 weeks today. It has flown by. Her eyes are a very pretty deep blue. I'm hoping they stay that way. We haven't been able to get a good smile picture yet - camera shy. But this is sweet. She is smiling a lot now and it melts my heart. I love this little baby. She is the mellowest of all my babies and I am very appreciative of that! She eats regularly and doesn't spit up too much like her siblings did. Yeah! We are loving our little angel!

So there we have it! The Hanks are hanging in there. We will be blessing Brielle May 2, so more pictures to follow!

Sisters - So cute!

2010-03-12T21:42:00.004-07:00

Can I tell you how much Marissa LOVES Brielle? So much!
Holding Brielle when we got home from the hospital. 3 weeks ago.

Saying goodnight. This must have been Daddy's doing!

Sunday morning - Marissa ready for church and loving her sister.

"Daddy, two girls, two girls." This is what Marissa was telling JD when he was holding and dancing with Brielle. Marissa just couldn't stand to have her Daddy dancing with Brielle alone - at least she could share him!

Daddy taking pictures. They both look pretty happy here! Infact it looks like Brielle is dancing!

I love this one. Brielle looks like she is telling Marissa something funny!

This was Marissa's doing. She had Minnie cuddling with her sister!

Aren't they adorable? I just love these little girls.

Brielle Alexis Hanks - February 17, 2010

2010-02-21T20:20:00.004-07:00

She's here! Yippee! We are so excited to have our sweet little angel Brielle here!
Here are her stats and a few pictures!
Born - Orem Community Hopsital 1:21 pm
Weight 10 lbs. 6 oz.
Length 21 inches
Hair - yes - a light brownish color
Cry - a little squeaky but totally adorable

Huge

2010-02-05T10:46:00.002-07:00

So I went to pick up Tanner at school yesterday. I usually don't get out of the car but since there wasn't really anywhere to wait I parked. As I was waiting for the bell to ring - I noticed a couple of teenagers waiting for a younger sibling. Anyway - they caught my eye. As I was standing there - I see the one girl turn to her friend and say something in her ear. Immediately the friend turns towards me (that's when you know someone is talking about you) and I see her mouth say "oh my gosh she is HUGE!" Wow - if that doesn't make you want to cry. I just about did. Come on baby - get here already!

Getting Ready!

2010-01-26T20:40:00.003-07:00

Finally it is almost February. I am so looking forward to February! I love February!
This pregnancy has been pretty rough on me. Maybe it's that I'm 32 and having my fifth child. Maybe it's that the other 4 were all over 9 lbs., and one 10 pounder and my body says enough already. Maybe it's just tough having lots of kids to take care of and be pregnant at the same time. Whatever it is - I am so excited for February!
I know my due date isn't till the 22nd but maybe just once I will have a baby early like 2 weeks or so - that would be really nice! Anyway - we are slowly getting ready here. JD painted the girls room and Tanner's new room a couple weeks ago. These pictures don't really do it justice but I thought I'd try.
Here we have our first pinkish purplish room! I LOVE it. It's funny how different it looks in our hallway when you look down and see this color. It's pretty! Marissa is ready to share her room with the baby. She loves to feel my tummy and say "she kicked me!" I wondering if I will ever get to hold my baby without Marissa wanting her too. This will be exciting!

And here we have Tanner's new room. JD and I really like the dark blue in this room. It is much better than what we chose before and it just fits! Tanner is liking it too, I think! I am so glad JD painted. I was so sick of the colors in these rooms but I didn't want to be a nag! :) He did it and he was happy to do it - I love that guy!

So if you didn't get the point of my post - February is almost here! Yippee for February!

He is 6 going on 12!

2010-01-19T22:21:00.002-07:00

My baby boy turned six last week. Isn't he a cutie? (By the way - don't EVER call him cute to his face - he doesn't really like that)!

We had a small, fun little party for him on his special day. It's funny how the birthday kid always is the worst behaved at their own parties. I've seen it happen several times but when it happens - it just makes you a little mad. :) Anyway - things turned out nice and he had a good time.
I love Tanner! He is a good kid. It's hard sometimes because he acts SO much older than he really is. So that's why I say he is 6 going on 12. He really does have a preteen attitude sometimes - scary, I know. But I really love him and he is a great helper to me! I hope he has a great year being 6!

And this is just the weird randomness that happens at my house! This is my crazy husband playing with the balloons from Tanner's party. The boys drew faces on them and then JD had the silly idea of putting it in his hoodie! The boys were rolling on the floor laughing. It was fun! I love my silly hubby!

He's such a kid at heart!

A post a week!

2010-01-12T20:47:00.005-07:00

One of my goals for this new year is to post something each week. Preferably on Monday but we'll see.
This is something I just want to remember. A week ago Friday night, I lost my contact. I was taking it out and it fell but I never heard it hit anything. I have hard contacts - so losing them is quite a pain. First of all because they cost $65 to replace and they take like 5 days to make it. And I really don't like wearing glasses all day long. So anyway, I called JD to help me and we searched my clothes, all over the bathroom, everything. But nothing! I was seriously so upset with myself.
I started praying that night. And that prayer continued throughout the next day. I was doing a ton of laundry so every time I walked in the bathroom I kept expecting to see it somewhere. I wanted my prayer answered!
By dinnertime I just assumed it was gone for good. So the boys were wrestling on the floor in the family room and I called them to dinner. We all sat down and Josh looks at Dawson and says "Hold still Dawson you have mom's contact on your face". We all turned and what? My contact was on his cheek. Amazing - truly amazing. So he must have picked it up while wrestling on the floor.

The Lord answers prayers in his own time! But I am so thankful!

More Christmas Fun

2010-01-05T11:00:00.003-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa came down early in December and helped the boys make a gingerbread house!

The whole bunch of Hanks' cousins over at my house for music practice. We like to get the kids together and go to a rest home and perform Christmas songs. We didn't get to the rest home this year but we did do it for the Seastrands and Great Grandma Hanks. The kids did great! They are all performers - that's for sure.

Up at the Torres house for Great Grandma's performance. Great Aunt Lori brought chimes and everyone had fun trying to play a few songs on those. Boy was it loud but look at the concentration - I don't think we've ever seen all the kids that still all at the same time before.

And finally at the Carter's house for our Christmas Eve Eve party. Here they are playing a game to see who gets to open the next present.

We are very lucky to have such great families on both sides. We had a wonderful time being together even if being together means total craziness! It's still fun!

And finally this is the only picture I got of New Year's Eve. Bummer. Kristin and David were so nice to have us up to their house for lots of food. We only stayed till 9:30. But came home and let the boys stay up till midnight. Here is Marissa and Brinley in their matching jammies. It was funny because I got them out to put on Marissa and Brin says "those are my jammies". So surprise they had the same ones. Sweet Brinley - just had chemo and her steriods the day before but was so cute. She kept wanting Tanner and Dawson to be her prince and protect her. It was funny. The boys played along though!

Christmas

2010-01-05T10:48:00.004-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas! Lots of family to see and lots of food to eat.

Here we are with just our little family for our quiet Christmas Eve dinner. JD and I think this is our favorite night. He makes clam chowder and I make a cheesy corn chowder. We use the nice china and eat by candlelight. It's so nice and the kids love it.

After we open presents at home and play for a couple of hours, we head up to my parents house and spend the rest of the day there. Lots of fun. JD and I got a new grill - yippee! We've already tried it out and it's wonderful. The kids love being with their cousins and having christmas dinner with everyone. MMMM - I love Christmas dinner

Snow and Sledding (a couple different times)!

2010-01-03T20:52:00.003-07:00

It's been awhile - so it will take me a couple of days to catch up. But here is the fam sledding. The first time was on Christmas Eve and we had the whole hill to ourselves. We had a great time! The second time was up at my parents house on the golf course on New Years Day. Oh boy was it crowded. I thought someone was gonna die. There were so many people there and everyone going every which way! But it was tons of fun and everyone had a blast. We love snow!

Marissa is 2

2009-11-21T13:22:00.003-07:00

We have been hearing for weeks about how "My birfday coming". Marissa has been so excited for all the fun a birthday brings.

Birthday breakfast. Candles in her pancake! She loved it.

She couldn't wait to have her cake.

And then the presents with all the fun helpers. We had 10 of her cousins there last night. Yeah it was definitely a little crazy but they had fun.

Blowing out the candles!

And finding her in the kitchen all by herself with a cupcake in her face! I guess the birthday girl can get away with that!

We love Marissa so much. She is such a sparkle in our family. I love the way she talks and the amazing way she learns. It is such a blessing to be her mother. Happy Birthday Sweetie!

Fall Leaves

2009-11-21T13:04:00.004-07:00

This month started out pretty rough. Tanner and Josh got pretty sick with a horrible virus. Tanner missed a full week of school and Josh missed 4 days. It was NO FUN. I wanted to slip this picture in here because I think it is really sweet to see Dawson taking care of his sick brother by reading to him. I love those moments!

And then the leaves. We get so many leaves every year. I am just so glad we have lots of boys who are good helpers to get them back to the garden. But you have to have a little fun in them first!

Dawson diving in!

Daddy and his sweeties! Dancing and fighting over who Daddy's gonna dance with next!

Tanner lost another tooth! So funny because we were in the car and he was just pulling and twisting and finally pop! He was very excited that he did it all on his own! And both bottom teeth are already coming in. He's growing up so fast. Dawson also lost another tooth. Tooth fairy is a busy lady around here.

And finally Marissa waiting for Daddy to get home!

Halloween Fun

2009-11-02T20:41:00.004-07:00

Marissa didn't mind so much putting her hand in the pumpkin. Not that she liked it but she did it. Josh just really can't do it. I kept telling him to man up but it didn't change anything. Tanner definitely is our pumpkin gutter. He doesn't mind at all. Dawson does well too.

Here's hammer head! Josh and JD kept thinking of funny saying all night about hammers and nails. Clever boys! And Josh received numerous compliments on his costume. A lady even had him come in her house to show her husband. JD really nailed it on the head! It was his idea and he made it! Good thing Josh is a good sport!

Our Zombie - didn't look much like a zombie at school because no face paint allowed. But we gooped it on for trick or treating. Scary!

Marissa really doesn't like when Tanner wears his costume. She is always saying "scare me, scare me". And Tanner wore it two days straight. He loved being a scary skeleton!

And here is our poodle skirt barbie/pluto! She was pluto at the rec center Friday night but the barbie Friday morning and Saturday. Silly girl. She definitely likes changing her outfits!

Here's the full affect sideways - I don't know why it won't automatically change - that's lame huh!

Here they are right before the trick or treating!

And the loot! They each got 200 pieces of candy except Marissa. They were out for a little over two hours. Crazy candy boys - and to tell you the truth it's JD who tells them they can't come home till they have over 200 pieces of candy. Funny daddy! We all know who wants to eat it all! Fun times!

It's been awhile - here's September!

2009-10-02T11:12:00.004-06:00

These first few pictures pretty much sum up September for our family! SOCCER! Tanner's team went undefeated this season! Tanner was also like the hugest kid on any team we played! We know the parents of the other teams were asking "are you sure that kid is only 5?" Yeah like we would be having him play at this level if he wasn't. It did get a little embarrassing when he just kept scoring and scoring every game. But he really did get good at centering the ball so his teammates could score! Tanner is a great soccer player and we are really proud of him!

Dawson and Josh were on the same team this year. I love that. Not so many different games and practices to get to. Dawson rocked. He loved playing on the big fields this year. He did so well at forward and halfback. He scored several goals this year! It was really fun to watch.

Here they are together. They make a great team. One of the best memories was when Josh was playing goalie. Josh has an awesome drop kick. He kicked it way up to the center line and Dawson at forward took it and scored! It was sweet. Hanks to Hanks - and it's good!

Josh was on fire this year. I think his confidence was really strong on this team. He scored more this year than he has ever scored in all his years. He had a great time. Their team was really even so there was no "stand out" player, they were all good and played well together. And they went undefeated till the last game and then they still tied. It was an awesome season - so fun to watch.

And now - the Lost Tooth! Really lost! Here's the quick version. Tanner tackled Dawson on the trampoline and his tooth got quite loose. Well, then about a week later they were playing football in the backyard and yep the tooth got knocked out - lost in the grass! Tanner was quite upset about it but eventually was ok when we wrote the toothfairy a letter explaining the situation. Well this story isn't quite over. I walk in the door from Relief Socety General meeting and I'm met with a lot of crying - another football injury. Tanner is crying because now both his top teeth are loose from playing football with the brothers! Poor kid is going to lose all his teeth to football!

All in 15 minutes!

2009-09-02T20:18:00.005-06:00

It all happened when there was less then 45 minutes to get us all to Tanner's first soccer game.
MARISSA!
Okay so here goes. I am at the sink doing the dishes (killing a little time till we have to go). Somehow the fridge was left open after someone put something away (JD). Next thing I hear is a kind of waterfall, turn around and the whole (FULL) orange juice pitcher is spilling all over in the fridge. OH I HATE WHEN THIS HAPPENS. Juice dripping everywhere, into the drawers onto the floor -EVERYWHERE! I start freaking out and JD starts cleaning up. We take apart the fridge, wash everything out, pull fridge out, mop under there and then push it back. Then I start mopping infront of the fridge, orange juice is so sticky! Anyway as I am doing this Miss Marissa is watching me (knowing full well that the floor is slippery) - I know she knows! And just like that she takes a step forward, feet slip out from under her, she goes down. But she doesn't just go down she takes the bucket of ammonia with her. GREAT! So now by baby is covered in poison. Off to the tub (about 20 minutes till we need to leave). Fast bath - just wash her off. Get her out - the usual running away naked time! But this time she runs to the kitchen to see Daddy at the screen door. Next thing I hear is JD laughing and saying "you have got to be kidding me!" Yep - the the naked girl pees all over the kitchen floor! We just all started laughing. What else could this girl do? So we got her clothes on and said "Don't move off this couch." We couldn't imagine any more damage but we wanted to be safe!
So there ends the saga of the Marissa accidents. We still got to the game on time and Tanner scored 10 goals. So now we can laugh but wow what a few minutes we had yesterday! We love that girl!

A New School Year!

2009-08-27T21:13:00.007-06:00

Here we are with all 3 Hanks boys in school! Happy Day! Today was Tanner's first day of kindergarten. He was so excited.

He is lucky to know so many kids from our ward in the two afternoon classes! And of the 3 girls that were in his preschool class - all 3 are in his kindergarten class! Fun!

Mommy getting a kiss as he is walking in! He had a wonderful time. And I got a big almost knock me over hug when he came out of class at the end of the day! Go Tanner!

Here we are with these older mature boys! Josh is in 5th grade and Dawson is in 3rd grade! That first day of school they were up at 6:45am and couldn't eat my special breakfast I made (too nervous and excited), and were just about to drive me nuts with their excitement. I couldn't wait to get them out the door! They are LOVING their teachers!

Just take a look at Dawson's face - that just says it all about the morning and how crazy excited they were! He looks like he's had a few too many doughnuts and caffiene. Funny!

And finally - Mr. Hanks! The hottest math teacher around! Starting his 10th year of teaching. He is such a stud. And I am going to brag about my good husband for a minute (I don't do that too often so I hope you can all handle it). So he is teaching Alegbra 2 Honors, Pre Calc, and Calculus. He teaches 3 classes on A days and has one prep. On B days he has no prep so he teaches 4 classes straight. Of all his classes the smallest has 35 students in it and the biggest has 37. Now there is a reason for that - he is the BEST! He really is a great teacher - one who cares and takes the time to do his best. I am so proud of him! He is making a difference in the world and doing something that he loves. We may not make a lot of money but we are happy and blessed. I love you JD! Thanks for working hard and allowing me to be able to stay home and take care of our family! The sacrifices are worth it!

Joshua's 10th Birthday!!!

2009-08-27T21:01:00.005-06:00

My little boy is a decade! It's pretty hard to believe. He is growing up so fast and is such a joy to our family!

Josh is funny, kind, sensitive, athletic, peacemaker, musical, a great student, and just an all around awesome kid. I am so happy to have Josh in our family! He has been a pretty easy kid to raise and I am so thankful for him and the spirit he brings to our home!

We got to have a late night movie in the backyard with his friends for his party. It was fun. I think the kids had more fun playing a game of football with JD while they waited for it to get dark than anything - but it was great. Fun times!

Here he is in all his glory after bowling a strike on our last hurrah before school started! Go JOSH!

"Waiting for something good to happen!"

2009-08-13T18:19:00.004-06:00

Tonight as we were talking about 3 good things that happened to each of us today, we started with Josh and he said "First, mom saved the day." I love when I hear that. So I will explain my heroics to you all! As I was leaving for my primary meeting this afternoon, I walked by Josh who was just pacing the front lawn. I said "what are you doing, waiting for the mail?" He sulkingly said "No I'm waiting for something good to happen." I just chuckled because we had just been in the house trying to get him to call a few friends to see if they could play. Well, I got to my meeting and said to his friend Miles (we were meeting at his house), "Miles are you bored", "Yes", "Can you play?", "Yes", "Can you go over to my house and play with Josh?", "Yes"!
I AM THE HERO MOM! This to all of you moms out there who are tired of being the bad guy. Just do what I did and you save the day! I love it! And to make things even better. Miles and Josh had a lemonade stand and made $4. Wow! What a great day, huh!

February 22, 2010!

2009-08-11T22:39:00.001-06:00

Number 5 will be here around then! We are all very excited!

We love Bear Lake

2009-08-05T12:15:00.004-06:00

So Bear Lake this year with the Farrells was a blast. We had so much fun on the beach. All my pictures are at the beach because my camera broke after. So we will only have memories in our heads of the fun rides on the four wheelers. Josh and Dawson even went solo on the 4 wheelers this year. Scary but they did great and were cautious. We had good food, good company, and lots of fun times to remember forever. This is really a fun time for our kids. On the first morning there - Dawson comes up to me and hugs me saying "Thanks mom for bringing us to Bear Lake - I love it here"!
The boys and their cousins! They love digging rivers in the sand.

Rissy on the jet ski before her fun ride with Daddy.

Marissa and Ian eating lunch!

My 90 year old Grandma not a second thought on the matter of whether or not she would go on a ride with her son!

My Grandma rocks. Can you really believe she is on here? I was shocked when she said she'd go. I thought I'd have to do a little coaxing but she is all for adventure. I hope I am too when I'm 90!

We also got a 9 month pregnant Krista on the jet skis for a ride. Way to go Tah!

Daddy and his little sweetie swimming in Bear Lake.

It's the Bear Lake sand monster! Yuck. But she loved it!

Fun in the sand!!

More of the sand monster!

This is on the second day at the beach. It started to get windy and rainy and Marissa and Fudge went and hid in the van! I loved this picture of them checking out the happenings from the back seat!

I LOVE Camping!

2009-07-21T18:41:00.008-06:00

Even though it is TONS of work and it took me like 2 days to recover, I really love to go camping. I love being in the outdoors and enjoying the beauty that Heavenly Father has blessed us with. It's funny because JD and I love camping for very different reasons but it's really nice that we both love to do it. I think it is GREAT for the kids. They love it too! So here was our recent trip to American Fork Canyon with JD's sisters and their families and Aunt Nancy! We hope next year (we are making this an annual thing - that JD's brother and wife and JD's parents will join us). Nothing like roughing it!

Marissa loved getting her head wet under the spicket before our hike!

Rock World. The kids found this fun place and spent a lot of time there. Lots of rocks to climb up on and hiding places!

Here are all the cousins! They had so much fun together!

Random Fun and Pictures from the last week!

2009-07-09T21:13:00.004-06:00

We got to go with our friends to their cabin last week. They loved the pool and the big slide! They keep saying let's go back!

On our way home from the cabin, Tanner was asleep within in minutes - even on the bumpy dirt road. He slept most of the way (by the way that is highly unusual). My kids never sleep in the car - only Marissa! I guess staying up till 11pm and waking up at 6am and then swimming will do that to you!

Daddy's dream - a family rock band. That's Tanner on the invisible drums, Josh on the invisible keyboard, Dawson on vocals, and Marisssa on guitar. They like to do this once in awhile and this was the first Marissa wanted to be in on it!

Rissy and her favorite puppy - Fudge!

Josh and Abby waiting for the fireworks!

Bobby and the kids playing football waiting for the fireworks.

Still waiting for the fireworks!

Finally Fireworks! Marissa loved them. She was totally mesmerized by the noise and lights!

Tanner reading books to his sister!

This is how I found Tanner at like 10:30 the other night. He must have fallen asleep with the shades on. I don't know how he did it. I laughed pretty hard! Funny boy!

It's been awhile

2009-06-29T20:51:00.005-06:00

I have no idea where Marissa got this habit from. ( Must be genetics from Grandma Farrell)! It sure is cute though. She doesn't slurp yet.

Mondays are Family Fun day this summer. One of our trips was to Antelope Island. That isn't the most exciting place to visit but hey now we can say we've been there. We even took our cute cousin Taylor!

We did get a new dishwasher - Hooray! JD installed it and did a marvelous job - no floods! And Marissa just can't get enough of her daddy no matter what he is doing!

Grandpa Hanks visited and was very proud when Marissa let him hold her! Oh and he also got on our trampoline and jumped a couple times! Yes it is true - I didn't think to get the camera!

Movie night on mom and dad's bed. JD set up the projector in our room the other night and the kids watched Scooby Doo and then JD and I watched Forever Strong when they went to bed. Fun to have a big screen!

Lawn mowing turned water fight turned chilling in the pool! JD is fully clothed in the pool! The kids had a great time with their awesome Daddy.

Dawson's Baptism

2009-06-07T21:43:00.004-06:00

Dawson's baptism day was perfect! It was just a great day. The Spirit was strong. Dawson just glowed and was so happy! I loved all the hugs I got from him yesterday. He also got baptized with his friend Savanna Schauers. It made the day even better to share it with them.

We are so lucky to have so much wonderful family who support us! Thanks everyone who came - we love you all!

I love how his face lit up when he saw his name - Dawson McKay Hanks - embossed on his scriptures. And he has been reading them quite a bit - last night, this morning, tonight! He is such a sweet boy! I love you Dawson.

Oh and you might have noticed that he is wearing glasses in his baptism picture. On Thursday we got him some glasses - it was time! Now he can see clearer and it's a whole new world!

Thank the Heavens - Tyler graduated!

2009-06-07T21:38:00.005-06:00

More like thanks to Mom and Dad for getting him through it. I think my parents are breathing easy now! Way to go mom and dad!

Tanner Graduates!

2009-05-27T21:02:00.003-06:00

Tanner is finally officially ready for kindergarten. I guess that's what it means when you graduate from preschool!
Here is his cute little class - they did so great on their program!

Tanner is a very boisterous singer. I can always hear him whether it's in his school program, or primary, or at home! I love that he loves to sing.

This picture is of him singing "Jeremiah was a bullfrog". This was my favorite. He was so cute and I loved hearing all the children sing the funny words! It was adorable.

Tanner's teacher loved having Tanner in her class. She was great. She gave Tanner the "most eager to learn" award because he surpassed everything she had for him. She said that she could have given Tanner every award because he was super at everything. What a nice thing to say. Miss Konnie did a great job teaching him and Tanner loved preschool.

Craig and Alissa's Wedding Day

2009-05-27T20:40:00.003-06:00

JD's sister Alissa was married Saturday the 23rd in the Mt. Timpinogas Temple. It also happened to be JD's 36th birthday! So lucky JD was surrounded by family all day long! It was a great day - lots of fun!
Here is the happy couple!

Josh came to the temple with us and waited outside with his cousins! Here are 2 of his cousins Ashley and Emily!

JD and I were married here almost 11 years ago - so we thought we would try to reenact some of our wedding pictures.

Matt, Melanie, Alissa, Kristin, and JD - all the siblings! Alissa was the last of the bunch to be married!
href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_jJWrcAnC1bA/Sh36GQvc39I/AAAAAAAAAuo/KtKI10FOKUQ/s1600-h/100_2859.JPG">
At the reception! The best part was the dancing! We boogied the night away!

Josh caught the garder - WHAT? He was embarrassed and tried to pawn it off on Dawson but he didn't want it. Oh well - I wonder what ever happened to it?

We are excited for Alissa and Craig. They will be a wonderful couple!

A Bear and a Bobcat!

2009-05-27T20:34:00.003-06:00

Dawson just became a Cub Scout this month and has already got his Bobcat badge (it's really not that hard for those who don't know much about Cub Scouts)! So now he will work on all the requirements for his Wolf Badge. (That does take a bit longer).

Josh has been working on his Bear badge all year and finally got it on the same night as Dawson and his Bobcat! Yeah for my cute (I mean handsome) boys! 2 boys in Cubs - it's only the beginning!

Potty Training?

2009-05-14T08:51:00.004-06:00

What makes you think she has 3 older brothers?

Dawson's 8th Birthday!

2009-05-05T21:43:00.005-06:00

May 4th 2001 - Dawson McKay Hanks was born! He has been so much fun to have in our family!

He is a bundle of fun. Dawson has a contagious laugh. It is so fun to watch him enjoy life!

I was once described as being "spicey" - I would have to say that that trait has been passed down! Dawson is spicey and fiesty yet sweet and loveable! He is awesome at everything he does - he is a hard worker and a great helper!

We love Dawson so much and we are excited to watch him continue to grow up! You rock Dawson!

A fight with the Blacktop!

2009-04-26T21:10:00.004-06:00

Josh's first broken or to be precise "fractured" bone. He had a little incident while playing basketball at school on Thursday that ended with a big swollen nose and a fractured elbow and sprained wrist! Poor kid! Here's the story.
Hanks goes up for the dunk (the short hoops of course) is rejected (by that I mean he hits his arm on the rim), flies backward and flips over and lands on his face - OUCH! The call from the office goes a little something like this "Mrs. Hanks, Josh had a little accident out on the blacktop. His nose is really swollen - I don't know if it is broken. (AAHHH) His arm hurts and his knee is all scraped up." My heart starts racing - the panic sets in.

I raced over there and he was a mess. I felt so bad for him. After a day of him not using his left arm - it just hung by his side - I decided he should get it looked at. It is a small fracture so only 2 weeks in the splint and sling. That's the good news! And there's the story!

You can see how his eyes look a little farther apart than normal. His nose is still a bit swollen! Poor kid!

Spring Break - Moab

2009-04-17T20:17:00.007-06:00

We had a great spring break in Moab. We were there on Monday and Tuesday and had great weather. We camped and hiked - it was awesome! Here is some of the fun we had!

Easter 2009

2009-04-15T22:00:00.005-06:00

Easter was good this year as usual. Here are the highlights!
Decorating eggs!

Finding eggs!

Being adorable in her new Easter dress!

My 4 sweeties!

I wonder where they get their handsomeness? Oh yeah!

The traditional family Easter picture in front of the house!

Mommy and her girl!

Tannerism 04/08/09

2009-04-10T12:38:00.002-06:00

Background: Tanner and Marissa have been going to a daycare at the gym while I work out a couple of days a week.

Mom: So Tanner, how was daycare today?
Tanner: Fine
Mom: What did you do?
Tanner: Played on that basketball hoop until Rissy started crying so I had to go and help her.
Mom: So you didn't get to play very long?
Tanner: No - Rissy needed me.
Mom: Tanner, I am so proud of you for always being so good to your sister and helping her feel happy when I'm not there. You are such a nice brother.
Tanner: (Very matter of factly) Well that's what brothers are for.

Lesson from a 5 year old!

Black Lightning!

2009-03-30T12:56:00.007-06:00

Pine Wood Derby Time!

This was Josh's first pine wood derby and he had a great time! He got 2nd place overall and 1st place in his Bear Den!

Don't worry, Black Lightning looks behind here but he caught up and won the race! Go JOSH!

3 boys and a girl

2009-03-10T15:07:00.004-06:00

Not many of my kids liked laying down in the bathtub at this age. Marissa loves it!

Cuties!

Yes - I caught her with a whole bag of m&ms she got out of my purse. Stinker!

Good brothers! Josh reading to Tanner.

At the new Draper temple. As you can see, Tanner did not want his picture taken. Grump!

Dawson and Rissy - my two blond hair and blue eyed babies.

Every kid needs a DOG!

2009-03-10T14:50:00.003-06:00

We got to dogsit Fudge (my parent's dog) for 2 weeks! And it was so fun. Marissa LOVED him. Fudge was probably pretty sick of her but he was always very patient. She loved getting his toy from him and throwing it so he would chase it.

Tanner is a big dog lover too. Fudge slept with him everynight and cuddled at his feet. When Fudge would wake up in the morning, Tanner was usually still asleep. But if I left his door open Fudge would go back in there and jump up right next to his face and paw at him and lick him till he woke up. There were several mornings where I would hear Tanner wake up laughing because Fudge wanted him to wake up and play!

The funniest thing that happened was one day we were throwing his toy and he got Marissa blue nose suction thingy instead of his toy. I tried to get a picture of this but it didn't work. Anyway - he went and laid down with it between his paws so the skinny end was sticking up right. It totally looked like he was suctioning his own nose. It was so funny! He is a good dog! We miss Fudge!

The Mystery of the Salt and Pepper!

2009-03-06T19:36:00.003-07:00

Sunday was the last time we saw them at the table. The nice little salt and pepper shakers were right where they were supposed to be in the middle of the table. Well after dinner the person who cleared the table didn't get those little guys put away - so there they stayed all night long and the next morning. I remember, vaguely, seeing them the next morning amid the clutter of breakfast cereals. And then it all became a blur. The table setter couldn't find them anywhere. So the hero "finder", ME, took on the challenge. But to everyone's surprise even I couldn't find them. I was seriously so confused. We looked everywhere - fridge, freezer, pantry, cupboards. There just isn't very many places that those things could go. So after a couple of nights of using the pour a little of salt in my hand and sprinkle it, I decided to buy some of the cheap kind at the store.
Now that you are all dying to know what happened next - I'll tell you. This morning as I was making JD's lunch, he was getting some breakfast. All of the sudden he makes a funny noise and I look over and he is pulling the salt and pepper out of the empty Golden Grahams box. What? We had a good laugh about it. I thought Dawson or Tanner had been playing a trick on us but as I asked them about it at breakfast this morning they were as surprised as me. Then it donned on me - our little table climber -Marissa! She had been on the table that Monday morning and I guess she does like putting things in other things! So mystery solved - who knew that a 15 month old could create such a mystery!

Just so I will remember

2009-02-24T21:56:00.002-07:00

Saturday night, JD and I got to bed about 11:30. As soon as we got comfortable, Marissa starts crying (not totally unusual) but usually she will just fuss for a few minutes and then find a binky and go back to sleep. Anyway she was crying pretty hard so I went in there and got her thinking if she laid down with us she would go back to sleep. No such luck. She was still crying and carrying on and kept trying to get off of our bed. So after struggling with her for a few minutes, I let her get down. She left the room and walked down the dark hall. She was only gone for a few seconds and then came back. I picked her up and she relaxed for a bit but then wanted to get down again. So I let her and off she went down the hall again. This time she didn't come back and I wondered if she went downstairs or something. So I got up and found her in the dark kitchen standing by her chair. I picked her up and asked her if she was hungry. She shook her head yes. So I set her on the counter and gave her some milk and toast. She downed the milk and ate most of the toast. Then we headed back to her room - read one book with the lights out and she went right back to bed. JD and I just laughed at how she really communicated with us what she needed even though she couldn't talk. What better way to tell someone you are hungry then go to your chair and wait! Precious!

Prayers
-So Marissa is finally getting the prayer thing. She knows when we do it and that we bow our heads and fold our arms. So the other night I went to put her down early and she just started freaking out - not normal - usually she likes going to bed. Well I didn't fight her - an idea just came to me. Since she was pointing out down the hall I thought we haven't had family prayer yet - that must be it. So I said to everyone to come for prayers and we all kneeled down and prayed and then she went right down to bed without another fuss.
-It was just Marissa and I for lunch the other day. I put her in her chair and then took her food to her. She made a grunt and then put her head on the table with her arms folded. I said to her " do you want to say a prayer" - and her cute little head bobbing yes confirmed it. So we said a prayer before her lunch.
-Out to dinner at a restaurant the other night. Before the food gets there she makes her noise and then puts her head down on the table - time for prayers! (although we are too prideful to pray in the restaurant, at least out loud!)

My Stars

2009-02-20T14:14:00.009-07:00

Tanner rocking out!

Dawson's dribbling skills with his best assister Josh behind him.

Josh scoring a basket! (It's hard to take pictures at basketball games - I need some tips or a better camera!)

Marissa's new thing - climbing on the table! This is before she fell off backward and landed on her head - but no injuries to report! Thank goodness!

Cheeseball.

Can't let go - she loves all balls!

45 degrees and LOVING it!

2009-02-04T21:03:00.002-07:00

Just had to say that I loved the weather today. Marissa, Tanner and I were out in the front yard for over 2 hours today. I even got a little warm! It was so nice to play in the sunshine and let Marissa run around. Too bad the backyard is still totally full of snow or we could play on the swing set. Patience Stacy - spring will come! But horray for today - it was great! I love the sun!

Marissa is so cute

2009-02-03T14:06:00.007-07:00

I just wanted to put some cute pictures up of my little girl. It is really fun having a girl in the family. She cracks us up so much with her personality. She loves shoes - and wants to change them regularly. She loves to tackle Tanner. Her hair is getting long and is still curly - I love it and am a bit jealous too! She is also always wanting to eat - going to the refrigerator and yelling for us to come and get her something. She is also a Daddy's girl. She loves her Daddy and is so excited when he comes home! And she is always getting into trouble - whether that be running to the toliet anytime the bathroom door is left open or stealing Daddy's ipod off his night stand or pulling all of the kleenexes out of the box. She is a handful of fun! We love Rissy Robin!

Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah

2009-01-20T21:38:00.003-07:00

And one more BLAH just for the heck of it. I so hate this nasty INVERSION. It is making me crazy cranky and feeling as I said before BLAH. I need some fresh air and sunshine! Or some new fresh snow! I will take either just please get rid of this poop in the air! I know my bad attitude stinks - sorry! Just had to get it off my chest - maybe now I will start to feel less BLAH!

My little Tanner

2009-01-13T21:03:00.006-07:00

I can hardly believe that my little boy is 5 already. As I was making this slide show I was getting very sentimental remembering all the fun times we have had with this little guy. We love you Tanner - you are awesome!
">

I loved this last picture of Tanner with his cousin Brinley. He is so good with little kids, especially Brinley, he is so tender and sweet to her. Happy Birthday big guy!

Basement!!!

2008-12-30T21:30:00.008-07:00

Our basement is nearly complete! YEAH! We moved the boys in last Monday after the carpet was laid. I LOVE it. We only have a few things left to do with the rooms. We will tackle the bathroom when JD's shoulder heals! JD has done a great job and so much thanks to all those who have helped!

Catch Up....

2008-12-30T21:00:00.018-07:00

It's only been a couple of weeks and so much has happened! Here are some highlights!

I don't know if I call this a highlight but what a clever baby! She knocked down the trash can and then pushed it all the way to the gate. I watched the whole thing and just loved her face when she could see over the top! Funny girl!

Tanner's preschool program at a retirement home. At first he just did not want to do it but finally decided he could and we are so glad he did because it was awesome!

Definitely not a highlight but definitely a big happening! JD dislocated his shoulder. In the xray you can see that he shoulder is like 2 inches away from the socket - disgusting and extremely painful. He's been in a sling for a couple of weeks now. Let's hope no surgery is required! Church basketball - need I say more!

Snow fun! We have had TONS of snow! The boys were out there for hours- burrrr!

The Sunday before Christmas! They all look so cute!

Christmas Eve dinner with the Farrells. Best Christmas present ever - Dad got the news that he has no active cancer in his body - way to live strong Daddy - we are proud of you! We are so glad they came down for our activities even though my brothers wouldn't sing with us - we loved having them here! Dinner by candlelight and a program on the nativity!

Christmas morning! Marissa got her own Dora phone! Hola!

Christmas morning! Dawson the rock star - his first guitar - thank you Santa!

Christmas morning - no pictures of Josh and his new IPOD shuffle but he sure loves it!
Christmas morning - no pictures of Tanner and his new Pokemon stuff but he loves it too!
We didn't do too good on Christmas day with the pictures - bummer! But we did have a great Christmas and hope you all did too!
P.S. I forgot to add that Josh sang a solo in our Primary program at church and did so great! And that evening at a stake music of Christmas, he and Tanner sang in a children's choir and did so well too. For one of the verses of the song, Josh sang a solo. He really is so talented. That day was definitely a huge highlight but no camera in church!

Santa and Staples

2008-12-10T14:52:00.008-07:00

On Thanksgiving Morning our family was lucky enough to have a Thanksgiving breakfast with Santa Claus. Well Santa's helper - Grandpa Hanks! Grandpa is Santa for Christmas this year and really is living up the part. So we got lots of pictures with the kids and Santa and had a great big breakfast that Daddy made of bacon, sausage, hash browns, waffles and eggs! Yum! Since we weren't going to be with the Hanks' clan for dinner that day we thought we would have a breakfast instead! It was fun!

Marissa wasn't too sure about this big, hairy guy!

On Monday night after Thanksgiving, we had FHE and a great lesson on service given by me. Things were going smooth for a Monday and as I was sweeping the floor that night - I thought "things have been pretty calm lately." Then that feeling of dread wondering what was going to happen to break the good happenings! Well as I was calling everyone to come sit down for scriptures and everyone was ignoring me because they were wrapped up in a game of football, Daddy proclaims "You guys know how this always ends - somebody gets hurt." Then about 4 times more of saying stop to the football playing. "One last play" was what we hear and then Dawson takes Josh down backwards and hits his head on the bookshelf. It was one of those where you know it's going to be bad before you even see it. So yep a trip to the ER and 2 staples in the head. You should have seen the look of dread on Dawson's face when the doctor said "Staples are best for this part of the head." WHAT! Priceless! But we all survived even Daddy who was about to blow a gasket when there was an injury after so many times of being asked to stop! And even Tanner who cried because he was so worried about Dawson. Hopefully we have all learned our lesson and will not be playing football in the house any more! YEAH RIGHT!

Happy Girl!

2008-11-21T16:37:00.015-07:00

Marissa turned one yesterday! We are so happy to have this beautiful little girl in our family.

Some things I love about Marissa are: her awesome smile, her little sweet curls, her big blue eyes,

the way she yells out for "Da" when anyone opens and closes the front door, the way she hides things in weird places (like when I couldn't find her 3 binkies and then as I was putting shoes in the closet and found them in Tanner's boot),

the way she yells when someone takes something from her, the way her cheeks get so pink and rosy (Dawson said one day when she fell asleep in the car "Marissa cheeks are getting red like she's in love.),

I love her giggle, I love the way she throws balls all over, I love the way she isn't scared at all of dogs and lets them lick her face, I love watching her smile when Daddy dances with her,

I love when she lights up whenever she sees her brothers, I love her big wet kisses, and the way she snuggles with me, I love watching her balance and walk her few steps,

I love how overly friendly she is to little people, I love how she plays peekaboo with total strangers when I am holding her in the store,

I just love everything about this sweet little angel who has blessed our lives for the past year!

Farrell Kids

2008-11-20T21:46:00.007-07:00

My sister Becky is in town from Hawaii for a couple of weeks and we did something we have never done before - we went out. We went out just the 5 of us. First stop an italian restruant called Mark Anthony's in Riverton. My cousin and her husband own it and Mark hooked us up. Much thanks to him!

The food was great and the company lovely! I think my siblings probably wonder what planet I came from with all my randomness. Maybe they could just tell that I don't get out much. We had a great time eating and talking and finding out what everyone enjoys doing!

Next stop bowling alley - but alas it was league night and no open lanes. So we head to Classic Skating. Yes we went rollerskating. Tyler was a little bit embarrassed that we were doing it but I think he had fun anyway. I think Tyler was the only one who fell when a crazy kid on a scooter just about ran him down.

After rollerskating we played LaserTag - I've never done that and it was fun. The place was a little ghetto but it was fun to run around shooting at each other. I think the girls won. Over all it was a great night and I am so glad we did it. I can't think of the last time we have all been together without any kids - a long time. Thanks Tah, Becky, Bobby, and Ty - I love you guys!

Football

2008-11-19T11:09:00.003-07:00

I thought I would give an explanation for my football background. It is very simple. Football is ruling our lives. NFL football, BYU/college football, fantasy football, my kids constantly playing football outside and INSIDE, Tanner always practicing his "juking" skills, and hearing everything there is to know about football and the players.
I am so blessed to be a mother to 3 boys who follow in their Daddy's love of football footsteps and a little girl that seems to think she needs to have a football too! It's awesome!

"I'm gonna kick your hiney"

2008-11-19T10:52:00.004-07:00

Yes - this from my sweet 4 year old. I hear this everyday when he comes to me and says "let's play UNO, I'm gonna kick your hiney." Tanner and I play UNO like 10 -20 times a day. He is actually really good. He has learned a new strategy - if you save your wild draw 4 till the other player has UNO then you won't lose (at that moment at least). We have a great time playing and we are usually pretty evenly matched. Like this morning the first one to win 6 wins. So it was 5 games to 5 games and Tanner came out the winner. Too bad he can't play UNO as nicely with his brothers as he does with me. I love Tanner.

The Wall is Up!

2008-11-02T20:52:00.012-07:00

Wow look at the hot guy with the jack hammer.

JD had a great time Saturday busting out the fireplace downstairs and drilling a hole in the cement floor for a new drain with that manly machine. The boys were equally thrilled to watch Daddy. Come to find out we woke up some of the neighbors that morning. Who knew a jack hammer could be so loud? Dawson said his primary teacher told him he fell out of bed when he heard it (funny guy)! It was almost 9am - what is anyone doing in bed at that hour anyway!

The boys helped haul bricks to the truck. But got bored or distracted or tired after awhile and then went back and finished later. It was a lot of bricks.

This is what the fireplace looks like now! Yippee!
JD's awesome cousin Geoff, who happens to be a plumber, came over all day Saturday and fixed the plumbing in the bathroom. We really appreciated him doing that and he even gave us the family discount. He was great. I was upstairs and I could hear Dawson asking him a bunch of questions and I could hear Geoff explaining to him what he was doing and what things were called. The boys are learning a lot from this construction business.

And finally here is the new WALL. Doesn't it look great? From this angle you can see the boys' new room on the right and the family room will be on the left.

Our neighbor Ceasar is helping JD with this part of the construction. He is great too. We really appreciate him. I love the wall. JD hopes to be sheetrocking this Saturday - it is all happening really fast.

BYU and Halloween

2008-11-02T20:30:00.009-07:00

Halloween came at us quick. Even though we had been talking about it for weeks - Josh still wasn't sure what to be even the day before. But we found a King Peter costume from Narnia and he really liked that. Here he is at the school parade.

Dawson wanted to be Darth Vadar but settled on being a scary skeleton. His mask was pretty freaky.

And here goes the picture I didn't get of Tanner as the Red Power Ranger. The boys had an awesome time trick or treating. We have soooo much candy! And poor Marissa got a really high fever the day before Halloween and was pretty much miserable so we didn't even dress her up this year. She is finally feeling better - thank goodness.
Here is what Marissa would do whenever she saw Dawson in his scary suit! It was so funny!

It was fate as JD puts it. He was offered 2 tickets from 2 different people for the BYU/UNLV game a week ago. 4 free tickets - he couldn't resist. I didn't want to be left behind so we bought one ticket for me and we all got to watch BYU win. Turns out it was probably the best game to go to in terms of weather. It was a beautiful day, not too cold and not too hot. Perfect! And BYU did win even though we were worried for a bit! Here are a couple of pictures of the day. Marissa even fell asleep for 35 minutes in the middle of the game - amazing.