I have been writing this blog in my head for two days trying to find some cohesiveness in my thoughts. I haven't found it, but I'm writing anyway. My brain and soul are full and this is my current method of purging.
I am in Utah this week for a business training and as I drove from Northern Utah into the Salt Lake Valley this evening I had overwhelming feeling of contentedness. A few things contributed to this feeling.
It snowed today and the mountains with fresh snow combined with a pink sunset was gorgeous. I am always reminded how beautiful this valley is when I fly in and see the mountains stand majestically where they stood all of my growing up years. I didn't gain the deep appreciation for them until I had to miss them. The crisp air after a snow just makes me want to breathe deeply.
I also had a wonderful sense of confidence and calm as I travelled to my parent's home this evening. I am deeply excited about this business. I believe that I can make it successful. My purpose in beginning this adventure is to make money and bless people's lives. I also have a desire to prove to myself that I can make this a fantastic business, something that earlier in my life I would have never considered.
I have recently adjusted the imaginary ceiling I walk around with- I don't know why we grow up thinking we can and can't do certain things, but running my own business wasn't ever on my "can" or "do" list. Without sounding completely naive, I believe I can accomplish anything I am completely committed to. I am not limited in the adventures I have the ability to pursue. I am not blind to the amount of work these things may require, but I love the full capable feeling that nothing is beyond my reach if it's something I truly desire.
A major component of my combobulated thoughts lately is faith. Referring to the Book of Mormon, Ether chapter 6 tells of the Jaredite journey to the promised land. The end of verse four says that they got aboard their vessels and set forth, "commending themselves unto the Lord their God." Is it my pride or my lack of faith that has prohibited me to commend myself to God? I love the notion that I can ask my Father for what I need, do everything in my power to make it happen and then commend myself and watch the Lord bless my life. The thought is freeing to me.
I had a fantastic day. The thoughts were a bit disorganized, but the day was good.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Monday, February 26, 2007
Cafe Rio Pork
This does not taste just like Cafe Rio's pork, but it's just as good! Courtesy: Ashlee
1 1/2 cans Coca-cola classic- do not use substitutes
1 cup sugar
1 (7 oz.) can Chipotle Chilles in ADOBO sauce
1 heaping tsp dry ground mustard
1 heaping tsp cumin
1 tsp minced garlic
1 3-5 pound pork loin roast
Remove the chillies from the can of adobo sauce. (If you like super-spicy foods, leave one or two chilies in. If you want to clean the system, go ahead and use them all...)Add all ingredients (except pork, or course) in a blender. Rinse the can of adobo sauce with coca-cola to get all the sauce out. Blend until well mixed. Place pork in crock pot and pour sauce over it. Cook on low for 7-9 hours or until the pork pulls apart with a fork.
Serve in tortillas with grated cheese, sour cream, lettuce, salsa, etc.
Note: if you don't make your own tortillas, the ones from Costco that you cook yourself are great!
1 1/2 cans Coca-cola classic- do not use substitutes
1 cup sugar
1 (7 oz.) can Chipotle Chilles in ADOBO sauce
1 heaping tsp dry ground mustard
1 heaping tsp cumin
1 tsp minced garlic
1 3-5 pound pork loin roast
Remove the chillies from the can of adobo sauce. (If you like super-spicy foods, leave one or two chilies in. If you want to clean the system, go ahead and use them all...)Add all ingredients (except pork, or course) in a blender. Rinse the can of adobo sauce with coca-cola to get all the sauce out. Blend until well mixed. Place pork in crock pot and pour sauce over it. Cook on low for 7-9 hours or until the pork pulls apart with a fork.
Serve in tortillas with grated cheese, sour cream, lettuce, salsa, etc.
Note: if you don't make your own tortillas, the ones from Costco that you cook yourself are great!
Denten's Pasta Sauce
3 Tbs. Olive Oil
1 onion, chopped
Italian sausage: sweet or hot, depending on your taste
1 lg. can tomato sauce
1 lg. can diced tomatoes
5 carrots, chopped very fine (food processor)
3 cloves garlic, sliced
1 tsp. sugar
Oregano
Basil
Thyme
Heat oil in large saucepan and add chopped onion and sausage, pulled into small pieces. Let onions and sausage cook through. Add tomatoes and sauce, carrots, garlic, sugar and spices. We use A LOT of oregano and basil- if we were to measure, at least 5 TB. of each. Let sauce simmer on low for as long as possible...serve over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
1 onion, chopped
Italian sausage: sweet or hot, depending on your taste
1 lg. can tomato sauce
1 lg. can diced tomatoes
5 carrots, chopped very fine (food processor)
3 cloves garlic, sliced
1 tsp. sugar
Oregano
Basil
Thyme
Heat oil in large saucepan and add chopped onion and sausage, pulled into small pieces. Let onions and sausage cook through. Add tomatoes and sauce, carrots, garlic, sugar and spices. We use A LOT of oregano and basil- if we were to measure, at least 5 TB. of each. Let sauce simmer on low for as long as possible...serve over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Alicia's Broiled Tomato Sandwich
I used sliced sourdough bread and four tomatoes (made a lot of tomatoes). I will probably start with two tomatoes next time and add more to the marinade if needed.
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 slices bread, lightly toasted
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to broil.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar. Marinate the tomatoes in the mixture, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, parsley, oregano, black pepper and 4 teaspoons Parmesan cheese. Spread mixture on each slice of toasted bread. Place marinated tomatoes on 2 slices and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
Place on a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes, or until cheese turns golden brown. Serve immediately, open faced or closed.
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 slices bread, lightly toasted
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to broil.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar. Marinate the tomatoes in the mixture, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, parsley, oregano, black pepper and 4 teaspoons Parmesan cheese. Spread mixture on each slice of toasted bread. Place marinated tomatoes on 2 slices and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
Place on a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes, or until cheese turns golden brown. Serve immediately, open faced or closed.
Ann's Pesto
1/2 cup pine nuts or almonds (raw)
3 cloves garlic
2 cups fresh basil
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
7 Tbs. olive oil/ water combination (eyeball it)
Brown nuts in dry skillet while boiling water to blanch garlic - dip garlic in water for 30 seconds. Press garlic. Add nuts to blender or food processor.
Blend garlic, nuts, basil and oil. Add salt and pepper. Take mixture out of processor, put in bowl and add cheese.
This freezes well for later consumption. Add alfredo for variety.
3 cloves garlic
2 cups fresh basil
1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
7 Tbs. olive oil/ water combination (eyeball it)
Brown nuts in dry skillet while boiling water to blanch garlic - dip garlic in water for 30 seconds. Press garlic. Add nuts to blender or food processor.
Blend garlic, nuts, basil and oil. Add salt and pepper. Take mixture out of processor, put in bowl and add cheese.
This freezes well for later consumption. Add alfredo for variety.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Smarty-pants
I have been reminded recently of how grateful I am for my child. Sometime in the last few months he has grown up. I'm not sure when it happened, but I am suddenly spending my days with a brilliant little boy instead of a baby. He surprised us a few weeks ago by counting to 10 all by himself when he didn't know we were listening. Could it be that he actually listens to me when I speak?
We were driving this week and as we approached the library he got very excited... it's a super fun place! He then pointed which way we needed to turn to go home. I played along and asked him at every turn which way to go. He correctly directed me at every corner until we pulled into our driveway. I was amazed that he had been observant enough to know how to get around our community.
I also learned this week that the little smarty-pants enjoys discussing the weather. We've had a bit of rain lately and obviously that has prompted his interest in what's going on outside. He'll inform me whether it's sunny (with blue skies), cloudy, chilly (which always means he needs his jacket immediately), or blowy. If it's dark outside, and not cloudy, we need to find the moon.
This is definately the age of discovery and while exhausting at times, I am continually amazed.
We were driving this week and as we approached the library he got very excited... it's a super fun place! He then pointed which way we needed to turn to go home. I played along and asked him at every turn which way to go. He correctly directed me at every corner until we pulled into our driveway. I was amazed that he had been observant enough to know how to get around our community.
I also learned this week that the little smarty-pants enjoys discussing the weather. We've had a bit of rain lately and obviously that has prompted his interest in what's going on outside. He'll inform me whether it's sunny (with blue skies), cloudy, chilly (which always means he needs his jacket immediately), or blowy. If it's dark outside, and not cloudy, we need to find the moon.
This is definately the age of discovery and while exhausting at times, I am continually amazed.
100 things about me
1. I am the oldest child in my family. I have two sisters and a brother. We are incredibly different from one another, but they are my best friends.
2. I have lived in Utah, New York, Wisconsin and Arizona.
3. I am not a small-town girl.
4. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
5. I learned to drive a standard transmission in a Porsche, I believe my dad has finally recovered from the experience.
6. I have a reputation for being incredibly indecisive.
7. If I were to hire out two household duties: cleaning the shower and cleaning the microwave. Dread those.
8. I have been scuba diving off of the coast of Batangas in the Philippines. Also in Hawaii, Mexico and St. John’s.
9. I sweep and mop my floors on Mondays.
10. Not a big fruit fan. It’s a texture thing.
11. My body was born with a magnet inside for the sun. It literally warms me inside and out. A guilty feeling eats at me when I'm not taking advantage of a beautiful day outside. It is very possible that my body will be old and wrinkly someday (I use sunscreen everyday mom).
12. My checkbook and budget need to be balanced to the penny several times a week for me to be satisfied. It was not always that way (note: freshman year of college) but it has become a mild obsession.
13. I could watch "Friends" reruns for the rest of my life and still laugh at the same parts.
14. I lived seven blocks south of Harlem for three years. It is a fascinating place to experience, especially as a Caucasion, LDS female.
15. I used to be able to rollerblade down a super staircase at the Univ. of Utah. I have the scars on my knees to prove my dedication to the task. This not-so-bright accomplishment was done to impress a boy (there are a few not-so-bright things I have done for that not-so-bright reason).
16. I have a Master's of Science in Social Work from Columbia University.
17. I was the only girl on our high school rock climbing team (also done to impress a boy, or two..). I was actually pretty good, in case you were wondering.
18. The only pets I grew up with were fish (for short amounts of time) and a rabbit or two that I was never close with. My family got a few dogs after I left home and while I've never minded other people's dogs, I never cared about having one of my own. Then people I love dearly (bro. and sis.) decided they needed dogs and that they were as much a member of their family as I am. They have convinced me that dogs provide great healing and friendship, sometimes when people can't. I have dog hair issues (I don't like it) but am willing to ignore it when it is a dog I care about; or rather when the dog belongs to a person I care about. Don't know if that make sense to anyone but me, but it's my blog!
19. I love the rain. Especially here in Phoenix. I love the sound, the smell and the fact that it is a great excuse to have a cozy day inside.
20. I clean bathrooms and do laundry on Tuesdays.
21. There are three garage doors in the world that will never quite be the same due to the questionable driving skills I possessed as a teenager.
22. I love color. I currently have 10 different paint colors in my home (which due to my indecisive nature took months to decide on). I also enjoy brightly colored flowers, they just seem happy.
23. I enjoyed the blessing of wearing braces and headgear for 5 years.
24. I believe that human beings of any sexual orientation should have access to the same rights, privileges and courtesy’s that I enjoy.
25. My drink of choice is water, cold and without lemon.
26. If one were to say that having a C-section was a not-so-painful method of giving birth, I would think one was out of their mind.
27. I would go through the above discomfort again without question if it meant experiencing motherhood again.
28. I vacuum upstairs and empty garbage’s on Wednesdays.
29. I have been married nearly 8 years to an amazing man. Eight years is a long time. He is completely a part of me.
30. I took piano lessons for 13 years. The majority of that time I practiced one hour a day. Tamara’s orders. I don’t regret it.
31. Naps and I have always agreed with one another. I believe I’ve taken the opportunity to have a nap most days since high school. I see that changing in my future, but the hours my son sleeps will always be cherished time for me. I am off limits during nap time. You know if you’ve tried to call!
32. I will always have a soft spot for London and the ways it changed my family. And my wardrobe. Somedays I long for Hobbes and Karen Millen, however I know if they were available here I would not hold them in such high regard.
33. A sunny day, a lounge chair and the latest issue of “Real Simple,” equals a bit of heaven on earth.
34. I believe in the law of attraction.
35. Another bit of heaven: climbing into a bed at night that has clean, fresh sheets. I love clean sheets.
36. My child is a miracle in my life in many, many ways. Modern medical technology combined with divine intervention brought my baby into this world. IVF, vasa previa, a cesarian delivery and lack of breastmilk were all obstacles my child overcame to get here. He knew I needed him.
37. I don’t like guns. I understand they have their place in this world, but as a general opinion, I don’t like them.
38. I pegged my pants in sixth grade (yes, for a boy, but it was fashionable at the time!).
39. Sixth grade was also the time it was brought to my attention, by a very sensitive 11-year old boy, that I was a bit challenged in the chest region. By “a bit challenged,” I mean my nickname included the term “flatwall.” I spent a few years wishing with all my might they would grow. I have since come to appreciate the lack of breasts that are mine. Wouldn’t change them at all if given the chance. My sisters feel bad for my husband, but I was not deceptive during our courting period… he knew what he was getting (or not getting…)!
40. I use lists.
41. I am a social being. I love people, parties and conversation. I love to be where the action is and fully absorb the electricity a room full of people provides.
42. I had an incredibly guilty conscience as a child (high school years: not so much).
43. I will only eat one kind of cold cereal. It’s the only one I like, really. I have not purchased another kind cereal for myself since I left home. Cracklin’ Oat Bran. I don’t eat it enough to keep them in business, but it’s the only one I eat.
44. I believe in positive energy.
45. My favorite time of day is when Denten gets home. I love how excited Cooper is to see him each day and I love when Cooper is in bed and it’s just Dent and I. I look forward to our “debriefing” time together, when we share what went on during the day- sometimes the discussion is brief, but I love that time.
46. I vacuum downstairs on Thursdays.
47. When I first moved to NY in the fall of 2002, I thought I was going to die. I recall a moment the first week we were there when Denten, Katie and I all started crying, wondering if we had made a huge mistake. Imagine: sinking feeling in pit of stomach. We survived, and those years turned out to be incredible learning years for me.
48. I am a firm believer in moving away from home after marriage. My relationship with my husband was strengthened in NY because we had to rely on each other. We were not surrounded by family or friends we had known for years. We were each other’s best, and sometimes only, friend. We learned a lot about each other those three years and learned to love each other even more.
49. I am incredibly proud to be a Banks. I love the Robinson family, and know that is part of who I am, but I will always be a Banks inside. I love that name.
50. There are a few things that I believe will be in Heaven to greet me when I arrive. One is a molten chocolate cake with vanilla bean ice cream. It will taste just like the one in the Virgin Islands, and look just as spectacular.
51. I believe my family is surrounded by angels.
52. I overanalyze most situations.
53. I have been called a worry-wart, for pretty good reason.
54. I should be folding laundry right now. I don’t like to fold laundry, but it’s a great feeling when it’s folded and put away.
55. I don’t look forward to doing my hair or make-up in the morning, but I don’t really feel ready for the day until I do.
56. When I take the time to do my hair, I think it’s pretty.
57. My hair has been its natural color for at least 5 years.
58. Also available for me in Heaven: Marie Calendar’s Chocolate Pie. Eat it slowly, you gotta make it last.
59. I appreciate organizational systems. I get excited about projects that allow purging and organizing. I feel great satisfaction when everything has a place.
60. If I round a few corners on a scrapbook page, they all need to be rounded. I’m working on scrapbook spontaneity.
61. When I load the dishwasher, all of the knives, forks, spoons, children’s utensils and cooking paraphernalia need to be separated in their own compartments and facing the same direction. I also rinse before I load. Thanks mom.
62. I was very fortunate to marry into a deep-seeded Native culture. I am proud my son can grow up with an incredibly rich heritage.
63. While I love a new unread message in my inbox, I believe letter-writing is becoming a lost art. Receiving a hand-written note in the mail is special.
64. I have never lived near a great beach. I don’t think I married the right man for that to ever happen, but I would have made a really great beach bum. Swimming suit, flip-flops, tanning oil, perhaps even a surfboard. In another life maybe.
65. I love crossing things off of my lists.
66. I have a tendency to be a bit controlling sometimes. I have a picture in my head of how things should be and often have a hard time deviating from that picture.
67. My angels are also arranging an endless supply of Café Rio pork tacos for Denten and I after we die. I like that he likes them as much as I do.
68. My husband has taught me to value “good” Italian food. Olive Garden does not cut it my friends. In fact, if you ask D, it’s a disgrace to call what they serve “Italian.” Serving in Italy for two years raised the bar.
69. I dust my furniture and some of the blinds in my house on Fridays.
70. Cold Stone Ice cream: chocolate with coconut and almonds. Divine.
71. I will go on a cruise through Europe someday. My child will either not be with me, or will be grown. My husband will be there.
72. I have visited both Canada and Mexico. I choose Mexico. It’s warmer.
73. It took persistence for Dent to ask me out. Good thing I’m persistent. I was “not his type,” which actually I agree with, but I’m not sure what his type is. I suppose we’re proof you can marry someone “not your type” and still live happily ever after. Well, we’re working on the “ever after” part.
74. My partner and I won first place in a "Rhumba" competition when I was dancing with the ballroom team at SUU.
75. I’ve never been too keen on tomatoes until my dear friend Alicia presented me with a delightful tomato sandwich at cooking class. I have been more daring since.
76. It is amazing to me how quickly one can get through a grocery store, fulfill every item on the list and get out when minus a two-year-old.
77. I do not believe violent torture should be used on prisoners of war.
78. I do not believe that it is ok to detain a person for any reason without making said person aware of the reason they are being detained.
79. I lived in Cedar City, Utah for four years. While I gained a great education and made a handful of close friends, I’m ok not to live there again.
80. I currently change approximately 4-5 diapers a day. I currently can’t wait for potty training to click. I have resolved to be more patient on this issue.
81. I have never broken a bone aside from my toe, but have had stitches in my left foot. Riding my bike without shoes on and metal Rainbird sprinklers.. not a good combo. Also, my front left tooth is not all my own.
82. I enjoy creating delicious things in the kitchen when I am well-prepared.
83. My son thinks I’m very funny. This is new to me as I have never felt especially funny.
84. My most productive hours are in the morning.
85. I love my friends and look forward to any opportunity to be with them. They are huge blessings in my life.
86. I look forward to airplane trips, but getting ready to leave town is usually an overwhelming task. There are always lists involved.
87. I enjoy communication in any form. Letters, phone calls, emails… they’re all good. They are connections to people. Remember, I love people.
88. I like to talk on the phone while I drive. Perhaps this sounds unsafe, but it has not caused any problems as of yet. I get where I’m going so much quicker if I’m having a good conversation on the way.
89. I also like to talk on the phone while I clean. I was able to clean all my bathroom last week while talking to my mom. So much more pleasant than doing it alone!
90. Anyone recognize this man? He and his wife are amazing.
91. I appreciate that I was introduced to culture as a child. I love music and the arts. I’m grateful that I have been able to experience Broadway shows, ballets, operas, symphonies and orchestras. Music is healing.
92. I strive for my home to be a place of culture and refinement.
93. While I may not always practice proper etiquette, I’m thankful I know how to behave in various social situations. A shout out to Merrilee for saving me some embarrassment.
94. Too bad Merrilee couldn’t save me from being called “Hooter-girl” one summer while working as a counselor at a day camp. The swimming suit was just not in the right place as I emerged from the wave pool. This was realized, mind you, after having a conversation with a male co-worker. The nickname was ironic, I know, considering the non-existent state that my breasts are in.
95. I love pesto. On anything.
96. Hearing my son laugh is the best sound in the world.
97. I love that Cooper thinks that cleaning is super fun and always wants to help. I’m much more productive without his help, but the fact that he enjoys cleaning the mirrors, scrubbing the tub and emptying the dishwasher means I better take advantage of it now. I know from personal experience that excitement doesn’t last.
98. I became much more open minded after I left the state of Utah. It was a combination of being exposed to a diverse group of people while also being submerged in serving them through my schooling.
99. I also love that Cooper thinks the scriptures are great stories. He is currently in his bedroom talking about King Benjamin and his tower. Towers are very cool.
100. Aside from my husband, the person I most admire in the world is my dad. I have learned, as an adult, that he does indeed have flaws, but I think the world of him and always will. I spent a good part of my life doing things to please him. He told me recently that he was proud of me and I realized that while that meant a lot, it wasn’t the reason I do things anymore. Perhaps I’m growing up.
2. I have lived in Utah, New York, Wisconsin and Arizona.
3. I am not a small-town girl.
4. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
5. I learned to drive a standard transmission in a Porsche, I believe my dad has finally recovered from the experience.
6. I have a reputation for being incredibly indecisive.
7. If I were to hire out two household duties: cleaning the shower and cleaning the microwave. Dread those.
8. I have been scuba diving off of the coast of Batangas in the Philippines. Also in Hawaii, Mexico and St. John’s.
9. I sweep and mop my floors on Mondays.
10. Not a big fruit fan. It’s a texture thing.
11. My body was born with a magnet inside for the sun. It literally warms me inside and out. A guilty feeling eats at me when I'm not taking advantage of a beautiful day outside. It is very possible that my body will be old and wrinkly someday (I use sunscreen everyday mom).
12. My checkbook and budget need to be balanced to the penny several times a week for me to be satisfied. It was not always that way (note: freshman year of college) but it has become a mild obsession.
13. I could watch "Friends" reruns for the rest of my life and still laugh at the same parts.
14. I lived seven blocks south of Harlem for three years. It is a fascinating place to experience, especially as a Caucasion, LDS female.
15. I used to be able to rollerblade down a super staircase at the Univ. of Utah. I have the scars on my knees to prove my dedication to the task. This not-so-bright accomplishment was done to impress a boy (there are a few not-so-bright things I have done for that not-so-bright reason).
16. I have a Master's of Science in Social Work from Columbia University.
17. I was the only girl on our high school rock climbing team (also done to impress a boy, or two..). I was actually pretty good, in case you were wondering.
18. The only pets I grew up with were fish (for short amounts of time) and a rabbit or two that I was never close with. My family got a few dogs after I left home and while I've never minded other people's dogs, I never cared about having one of my own. Then people I love dearly (bro. and sis.) decided they needed dogs and that they were as much a member of their family as I am. They have convinced me that dogs provide great healing and friendship, sometimes when people can't. I have dog hair issues (I don't like it) but am willing to ignore it when it is a dog I care about; or rather when the dog belongs to a person I care about. Don't know if that make sense to anyone but me, but it's my blog!
19. I love the rain. Especially here in Phoenix. I love the sound, the smell and the fact that it is a great excuse to have a cozy day inside.
20. I clean bathrooms and do laundry on Tuesdays.
21. There are three garage doors in the world that will never quite be the same due to the questionable driving skills I possessed as a teenager.
22. I love color. I currently have 10 different paint colors in my home (which due to my indecisive nature took months to decide on). I also enjoy brightly colored flowers, they just seem happy.
23. I enjoyed the blessing of wearing braces and headgear for 5 years.
24. I believe that human beings of any sexual orientation should have access to the same rights, privileges and courtesy’s that I enjoy.
25. My drink of choice is water, cold and without lemon.
26. If one were to say that having a C-section was a not-so-painful method of giving birth, I would think one was out of their mind.
27. I would go through the above discomfort again without question if it meant experiencing motherhood again.
28. I vacuum upstairs and empty garbage’s on Wednesdays.
29. I have been married nearly 8 years to an amazing man. Eight years is a long time. He is completely a part of me.
30. I took piano lessons for 13 years. The majority of that time I practiced one hour a day. Tamara’s orders. I don’t regret it.
31. Naps and I have always agreed with one another. I believe I’ve taken the opportunity to have a nap most days since high school. I see that changing in my future, but the hours my son sleeps will always be cherished time for me. I am off limits during nap time. You know if you’ve tried to call!
32. I will always have a soft spot for London and the ways it changed my family. And my wardrobe. Somedays I long for Hobbes and Karen Millen, however I know if they were available here I would not hold them in such high regard.
33. A sunny day, a lounge chair and the latest issue of “Real Simple,” equals a bit of heaven on earth.
34. I believe in the law of attraction.
35. Another bit of heaven: climbing into a bed at night that has clean, fresh sheets. I love clean sheets.
36. My child is a miracle in my life in many, many ways. Modern medical technology combined with divine intervention brought my baby into this world. IVF, vasa previa, a cesarian delivery and lack of breastmilk were all obstacles my child overcame to get here. He knew I needed him.
37. I don’t like guns. I understand they have their place in this world, but as a general opinion, I don’t like them.
38. I pegged my pants in sixth grade (yes, for a boy, but it was fashionable at the time!).
39. Sixth grade was also the time it was brought to my attention, by a very sensitive 11-year old boy, that I was a bit challenged in the chest region. By “a bit challenged,” I mean my nickname included the term “flatwall.” I spent a few years wishing with all my might they would grow. I have since come to appreciate the lack of breasts that are mine. Wouldn’t change them at all if given the chance. My sisters feel bad for my husband, but I was not deceptive during our courting period… he knew what he was getting (or not getting…)!
40. I use lists.
41. I am a social being. I love people, parties and conversation. I love to be where the action is and fully absorb the electricity a room full of people provides.
42. I had an incredibly guilty conscience as a child (high school years: not so much).
43. I will only eat one kind of cold cereal. It’s the only one I like, really. I have not purchased another kind cereal for myself since I left home. Cracklin’ Oat Bran. I don’t eat it enough to keep them in business, but it’s the only one I eat.
44. I believe in positive energy.
45. My favorite time of day is when Denten gets home. I love how excited Cooper is to see him each day and I love when Cooper is in bed and it’s just Dent and I. I look forward to our “debriefing” time together, when we share what went on during the day- sometimes the discussion is brief, but I love that time.
46. I vacuum downstairs on Thursdays.
47. When I first moved to NY in the fall of 2002, I thought I was going to die. I recall a moment the first week we were there when Denten, Katie and I all started crying, wondering if we had made a huge mistake. Imagine: sinking feeling in pit of stomach. We survived, and those years turned out to be incredible learning years for me.
48. I am a firm believer in moving away from home after marriage. My relationship with my husband was strengthened in NY because we had to rely on each other. We were not surrounded by family or friends we had known for years. We were each other’s best, and sometimes only, friend. We learned a lot about each other those three years and learned to love each other even more.
49. I am incredibly proud to be a Banks. I love the Robinson family, and know that is part of who I am, but I will always be a Banks inside. I love that name.
50. There are a few things that I believe will be in Heaven to greet me when I arrive. One is a molten chocolate cake with vanilla bean ice cream. It will taste just like the one in the Virgin Islands, and look just as spectacular.
51. I believe my family is surrounded by angels.
52. I overanalyze most situations.
53. I have been called a worry-wart, for pretty good reason.
54. I should be folding laundry right now. I don’t like to fold laundry, but it’s a great feeling when it’s folded and put away.
55. I don’t look forward to doing my hair or make-up in the morning, but I don’t really feel ready for the day until I do.
56. When I take the time to do my hair, I think it’s pretty.
57. My hair has been its natural color for at least 5 years.
58. Also available for me in Heaven: Marie Calendar’s Chocolate Pie. Eat it slowly, you gotta make it last.
59. I appreciate organizational systems. I get excited about projects that allow purging and organizing. I feel great satisfaction when everything has a place.
60. If I round a few corners on a scrapbook page, they all need to be rounded. I’m working on scrapbook spontaneity.
61. When I load the dishwasher, all of the knives, forks, spoons, children’s utensils and cooking paraphernalia need to be separated in their own compartments and facing the same direction. I also rinse before I load. Thanks mom.
62. I was very fortunate to marry into a deep-seeded Native culture. I am proud my son can grow up with an incredibly rich heritage.
63. While I love a new unread message in my inbox, I believe letter-writing is becoming a lost art. Receiving a hand-written note in the mail is special.
64. I have never lived near a great beach. I don’t think I married the right man for that to ever happen, but I would have made a really great beach bum. Swimming suit, flip-flops, tanning oil, perhaps even a surfboard. In another life maybe.
65. I love crossing things off of my lists.
66. I have a tendency to be a bit controlling sometimes. I have a picture in my head of how things should be and often have a hard time deviating from that picture.
67. My angels are also arranging an endless supply of Café Rio pork tacos for Denten and I after we die. I like that he likes them as much as I do.
68. My husband has taught me to value “good” Italian food. Olive Garden does not cut it my friends. In fact, if you ask D, it’s a disgrace to call what they serve “Italian.” Serving in Italy for two years raised the bar.
69. I dust my furniture and some of the blinds in my house on Fridays.
70. Cold Stone Ice cream: chocolate with coconut and almonds. Divine.
71. I will go on a cruise through Europe someday. My child will either not be with me, or will be grown. My husband will be there.
72. I have visited both Canada and Mexico. I choose Mexico. It’s warmer.
73. It took persistence for Dent to ask me out. Good thing I’m persistent. I was “not his type,” which actually I agree with, but I’m not sure what his type is. I suppose we’re proof you can marry someone “not your type” and still live happily ever after. Well, we’re working on the “ever after” part.
74. My partner and I won first place in a "Rhumba" competition when I was dancing with the ballroom team at SUU.
75. I’ve never been too keen on tomatoes until my dear friend Alicia presented me with a delightful tomato sandwich at cooking class. I have been more daring since.
76. It is amazing to me how quickly one can get through a grocery store, fulfill every item on the list and get out when minus a two-year-old.
77. I do not believe violent torture should be used on prisoners of war.
78. I do not believe that it is ok to detain a person for any reason without making said person aware of the reason they are being detained.
79. I lived in Cedar City, Utah for four years. While I gained a great education and made a handful of close friends, I’m ok not to live there again.
80. I currently change approximately 4-5 diapers a day. I currently can’t wait for potty training to click. I have resolved to be more patient on this issue.
81. I have never broken a bone aside from my toe, but have had stitches in my left foot. Riding my bike without shoes on and metal Rainbird sprinklers.. not a good combo. Also, my front left tooth is not all my own.
82. I enjoy creating delicious things in the kitchen when I am well-prepared.
83. My son thinks I’m very funny. This is new to me as I have never felt especially funny.
84. My most productive hours are in the morning.
85. I love my friends and look forward to any opportunity to be with them. They are huge blessings in my life.
86. I look forward to airplane trips, but getting ready to leave town is usually an overwhelming task. There are always lists involved.
87. I enjoy communication in any form. Letters, phone calls, emails… they’re all good. They are connections to people. Remember, I love people.
88. I like to talk on the phone while I drive. Perhaps this sounds unsafe, but it has not caused any problems as of yet. I get where I’m going so much quicker if I’m having a good conversation on the way.
89. I also like to talk on the phone while I clean. I was able to clean all my bathroom last week while talking to my mom. So much more pleasant than doing it alone!
90. Anyone recognize this man? He and his wife are amazing.
91. I appreciate that I was introduced to culture as a child. I love music and the arts. I’m grateful that I have been able to experience Broadway shows, ballets, operas, symphonies and orchestras. Music is healing.
92. I strive for my home to be a place of culture and refinement.
93. While I may not always practice proper etiquette, I’m thankful I know how to behave in various social situations. A shout out to Merrilee for saving me some embarrassment.
94. Too bad Merrilee couldn’t save me from being called “Hooter-girl” one summer while working as a counselor at a day camp. The swimming suit was just not in the right place as I emerged from the wave pool. This was realized, mind you, after having a conversation with a male co-worker. The nickname was ironic, I know, considering the non-existent state that my breasts are in.
95. I love pesto. On anything.
96. Hearing my son laugh is the best sound in the world.
97. I love that Cooper thinks that cleaning is super fun and always wants to help. I’m much more productive without his help, but the fact that he enjoys cleaning the mirrors, scrubbing the tub and emptying the dishwasher means I better take advantage of it now. I know from personal experience that excitement doesn’t last.
98. I became much more open minded after I left the state of Utah. It was a combination of being exposed to a diverse group of people while also being submerged in serving them through my schooling.
99. I also love that Cooper thinks the scriptures are great stories. He is currently in his bedroom talking about King Benjamin and his tower. Towers are very cool.
100. Aside from my husband, the person I most admire in the world is my dad. I have learned, as an adult, that he does indeed have flaws, but I think the world of him and always will. I spent a good part of my life doing things to please him. He told me recently that he was proud of me and I realized that while that meant a lot, it wasn’t the reason I do things anymore. Perhaps I’m growing up.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Alright, I'm in!
I created my own blog... yes, that's pride you hear. Not that it's hard to create, it was the leading up to it part that took a little time. My dear cousin has finally convinced me that this is going to be worth while project. My hesitations are that I won't have a lot of spare time in the next while, but that's also one of the reasons I'm doing it. My purpose here is to record the moments in my life that I want to remember , the ones I tell my mom and she says, "I hope you're writing these things down!"
I am incredibly blessed and have wonderful things happen to me all the time. I have, in the past, been a pretty good journal-keeper. Not lately. Not now, when I have my own family and these moments are more important than any others. So this is the place for my thoughts, my views on what's happening in the world, in my community, hilarious antidotes about my son and sweet ones too; the place to document the amazing friendships I have in my life and the fun times that they provide as well as reflect on how I got to this place and the stumbling blocks I overcame.
Between my daily responsibilities of wife and mother and the business responsibilities that will soon be mine, I anticipate needing an occasional "breath of fresh air" so tune in as often as you like as I try to remember to come up for air once in a while...
I am incredibly blessed and have wonderful things happen to me all the time. I have, in the past, been a pretty good journal-keeper. Not lately. Not now, when I have my own family and these moments are more important than any others. So this is the place for my thoughts, my views on what's happening in the world, in my community, hilarious antidotes about my son and sweet ones too; the place to document the amazing friendships I have in my life and the fun times that they provide as well as reflect on how I got to this place and the stumbling blocks I overcame.
Between my daily responsibilities of wife and mother and the business responsibilities that will soon be mine, I anticipate needing an occasional "breath of fresh air" so tune in as often as you like as I try to remember to come up for air once in a while...
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