Big Bear 2008

This past weekend we went to Big Bear Lake to celebrate Curt's parent's 30 year anniversary. We stayed in a gigantic "cabin" right on the lake. We had a lovely time.

Brook was helpful packing as always......

She slept almost the whole way there. It made for a relaxing car trip.

We enjoyed 1 ride on the boat. Brooklyn wasn't havin' the life jacket. Every couple of minutes she would let out a very vocal protest just so we wouldn't forget that she wasn't happy.

There was ample bonding time for the cousins. Ava taught Brook a new word, "why." Something we heard often throughout the weekend.
 

Curt and I took Brooklyn to the park while everyone else went on the boat. **Note the bow Brook is wearing**

Danelle taught me how to make some cute head bows. I like to put them on Brook almost any time we're in public. I get sick of people saying "He's so cute," or "what's his name," or "hey little guy!"

Here are some pictures of the huge house. Plenty of room for us to all spread out.

For Shanna

Duck lips to you!!!

Surprise Bike

The other day I went into my dining room and was suprised to find a pink beach cruiser and child seat sitting in there. I had been wanting to go for bike rides lately with Brooklyn. As usual I wanted something and Curt delivered:) He's too good to me.

1 Year Old Pictures

Here are some of the pictures from Brooklyn's One year shots. They didn't turn out as good as they usually do, but we did get some cute ones. It was hard this time because all she wanted to do was walk around. Most of the pictures look like we caught her in the middle of a football game. It's easier when they're stationary.

I even sucked it up and had one taken of us together. I used it for Curt's father's day gift.

Chocolate Fiend

It's only just begun....

Talking on phone: Part 2

Brooklyn spends about 60% of awake time walking around "talking" on phone. I don't know where she gets it from.

T.V. Milestone

This morning, for the first time, Brooklyn watched T.V. She's never shown much interest before and I've actually never really put anything on that's baby friendly. So today I thought, "what the heck, let's try it." Sure enough I turned on Elmo and she was hooked. She started off on my lap and occasionally would turn and smile at me. Very cute. I put a couple of pillows on the floor and laid her down with her blankie and pacifier. She stayed there for about 10 minutes. I think that's pretty good. I'm not gonna be one of those parents who always stick their kid in front of the T.V., but a break now and then will be nice.

"That's why I wear a helMET!"

Curt and Brooklyn went on a little outing tonight to buy a helmet. When they got home we put it on her to see how she would do. She didn't seem to mind it at all. She just went about her business.

She even got into a little trouble. I guess she thought the helmet would prevent any injuries from WWI (walking while intoxicated.)

Brooklyn's 1st Birthday Party

Sunday, June 1st, we celebrated Brooklyn's 1st birthday. I decided, since she isn't into any cartoons or anything, I would do a tropical theme. I collected random decorations for months in advance.

My friend Amber Van Duyn provided the beautiful flowers to add a touch of class:)



Yes, that's right, I made the cupcakes myself. They'll be featured in the August issue of Martha Stewart's Magazine.



Brooklyn made her grand entrance with her usual big smile. She was so excited when she saw all her friends and family! She looked like such a princess sporting her birthday outfit that I designed and her Auntie Danelle put together.



After she was done showing of her new skill (walking) and her pretty outfit she was ready for a swim. Since we don't have many toys for all her cousins and friends we decided to have a blow up pool for entertainment. All the kids seemed to have had a blast.




Here she is with her friend Wyatt, they love playing together.



After pool time is was time for the traditional 1st birthday cake. My baking skills lacked a little when it came to the cake. She didn't seem to care.



She enjoyed sharing with all her cousins. And I think they enjoyed it as well. They all got their turn dipping their fingers for a little taste.

Here she is sharing with her cousin Elijah.



She received so many good toys and clothes. Every morning since has been like Christmas when she comes out to the family room and sees all the new things to play with.



When everything was over, all she wanted to do was have herself a margarita.....



and take a nap:)