Estrogen Ocean

Ryan is swimming in one, wouldn’t you agree? This was his first Christmas and his first time to take part in the Banning grandchild (formerly known as the GrandGIRLS) picture.  We absolutely love ADORE our nieces.  They are literally like our own children.  Back row from the left:

Hallie-Our 2nd born niece.  She’s 14 and more precious to us than she will EVER know.  Hallie is always up for anything…she’s wonderful to keep Paige when we need her to and she’s extremely patient and willing to get on the floor and play with a 4 year old.  She gives Paige her iPhone to play with whenever Paige asks.  I was actually her babysitter when she was less than a year old and before Stephen and I even thought about dating each other.  I’ve watched her grow up from Day 1 and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for her.

Tatum-Our 3rd born niece.  She’s Stephen’s sister, Kim’s, oldest daughter.  Tatum was about 1 1/2 when Stephen and I began dating and I’ve loved her from that day.  She’s really growing into a young lady.  Tatum is the older sister that Paige doesn’t biologically have and she’s incredible with Paige.  She’s a take charge leader that isn’t bossy and is always protective of Paige. 

Hannah-Our oldest niece.  Stephen was 12 when she was born.  We don’t pick favorites…but there is a very special bond between Hannah and Stephen.  Hannah is 18 and graduating from High School this coming May and it may very well kill Stephen and I that she’s grown up.  Hannah was in the delivery room with us when Ryan was born.  Her bond with Ryan is different than anything I’ve ever witnessed…she loves him like he’s her own.  Maybe she can understand how we feel about her through her connection with Ryan.  She’s amazing to us.

Front Row from Left:

Parker-Our 5th born niece and our surprise niece!  Parker was born 6 months after Stephen and I got engaged and 6 months before our wedding.  She had the most amazing hair that I’ve ever laid eyes on!  Parker is 8, but thinks she’s 18.  With 2 older sisters, how can she be blamed?!  Parker is a fantastic playmate for Paige and is great to share with her.

Kelby-Our 4th born niece and Tatum’s sister.  She truly loves Paige.  She’s such a sweet spirit and looks forward to spending time with my baby…and I think so much of her for that.  I can’t say enough about how much her willingness to play with a 4 year old blesses us. 

To our beautiful nieces,

You mean more to your Uncle Stephen and I than you can imagine.  I can’t say that enough!  We love you and are so thankful that God put you in our lives.