Brooklin's Life

Busy Busy Busy

2010-03-31T09:37:00.000-07:00

Get ready for lots of pictures...We've been busy girls! :)

Hanging out with Mason and Kai at the new LaPorte BWs.

This will be her Papa Jones's 21st BWs, so her Daddy had this jersey made for him.

She loves to hi-five the chicken...cracks me up!

Planting some seeds with me and Papa.

She went through a couple weeks where she was "cold" and needed to wear a blanket around the house...lol

We went to Antioch, IL and visited our friends Chelsea and Tanner! It was a short but well needed mini-vacay! We had such a great time! Hope to do it again soon!

Random pics...

Brooklin is officially 2!!! These pictures are from her joint birthday party with her big brother, Mason who turned 8 one week after she turned 2! We were fortunate to be able to have their party at the LaPorte BWs...fabulous since we both have large families and really enjoyed being able to celebrate together with both sides of the family! The kids had fun! So did I:)!

A few of Brooklin's favorite people: Rei-Rei, Baby Ava, and Ava

Cake time: Batman and Yo Gabba Gabba (thanks to Granny!!)

Brooklin's cousin Ava placed this bow on her head, and it almost made me cry...At that moment, I knew my Grandpa Snyder was there with us (Brooklin's Great-Grandpa always put a bow on his head at Christmas and his Birthday...and we always did the same when we were kids...thanks, Ava, for making me smile;)!!!)

Mason reading to Brooklin, Kai, and Daddy

Hanging out with her best friends, the Yo Gabba characters.

Dorothy is no longer a caterpillar...we were so proud of her;)

Bubbles...her favorite thing to do

Hanging out with her Great-Grandma Shreves.

She received these wings at her birthday and loves wearing them...

Fun with Sidewalk Chalk

Bubbles!!!

On Brooklin's actual birthday, Brooklin, me, and Brandon went to Ft Wayne to see Yo Gabba Gabba Live! (Thanks to Brooklin's Granny who purchased the tickets as her birthday gift)...It ended up being a great show, and a great day for all 3 of us! I was nervous that she might get freaked out, but she loved it...cried when we left because she wanted more Gabba... Probably ranked up there with some of the best days of my life...loved seeing the true joy on her face!

I feel that everyone should blow out candles on their birthday...we arrived home late and so I threw a "2" candle in Brandon's blizzard...as you can tell by the look on her face, she was less than amused and thought we were idiots...she did blow out the candle though. ;)

Daddy helping her on her tricycle skills.

This is what happens when we both wake up late...lol

Brooklin's first Easter Egg Hunt of the year...Grandma's bank.

We went to the playground with Daddy, Mason, and Kai...and Minnie Mouse...

Fingerpainting...started off good, ended with tears...

Coloring Easter Eggs at Uncle John and Aunt Amanda's house

Playing with her cousins, Addison and Aiden...and yes, I realize she is wearing a million different patterns and someday she will wonder what I was thinking...oh well...

Brooklin can now say her ABCs...and after playing with her twin cousins who can spell their name (AMAZING!)...we are now working on that. She had her 2 year doctor appointment and all went well. She's 35.5 inches tall and weighing in at 28.8 pounds...my big girl!
Hope you enjoy the pics!!!

Almost 2!!!

2010-03-03T21:43:00.000-08:00

Waiting patiently on Mom.

She loves her babydolls!

We are anxiously waiting for daddy's new BWs to open in LaPorte. We are so proud of him for all his hard work that he's put into it! Good job, Daddy!!! We went there and hung out with him for a while the other day. Brooklin's going to be very disappointed when the store opens...she's not going to understand why she can't run all over anymore;)...

All that playing makes for one tired little girl!

Here's our new pet caterpillar, Dorothy. Okay, not really a pet (it's mommy's bio project)...but Brooklin LOVES her! We tell her to grow up big and strong almost everyday...Brooklin's so cute talking to her!

Sticker fun!

Probably not the safest thing...but she does love to climb back and forth...the table is quite often her stage...especially during American Idol...lol

Have I mentioned how much she loves her Papa...

She is growing like a weed...can't believe her 2 year birthday is approaching so quickly!!! She's still very into books, her tv shows, climbing and jumping, dancing, singing (basically entertaining everyone), etc....etc. Testing her boundaries as usual. Miss Independent! Safe to say that the "time out" chair is pretty familiar territory. Although she has her naughty moments, for the most part she keeps me laughing. Such a blessing! Thank you God for letting her bring such sunshine into my life....you are and will forever be Mommy's "sunshine", dearest Brooklin! xoxo

Side note: Please continue praying for healing for my Aunt MaryAnn. AND please pray for peace for the Hacker and Birchfield families...

Yo Gabba Gabba...

2010-02-16T07:31:00.000-08:00

Brooklin has been doing well...had a nasty cold, but seems to be getting better! Yay! We have pretty much spent every second lately watching "Yo Gabba Gabba"...she is totally addicted! She gets very excited every time it starts! When it's not Gabba, it's iCarly...which is very random to be my 1 year olds (ALMOST 2) favorite show. And the "Buble" addiction is still in full swing...that's all I'm allowed to listen to in the car...and every man she sees in a suit makes her yell "Buble"...how funny. Went to the doctor last week because she stepped on something in the basement...not sure what, but it went all the way across her heel. Got some cream to try and avoid infection. She is weighing in at just over 28 lbs...crazy! We also got to spend some time hanging out with her Grandma and Grandpa Snyder at the Holiday Inn on Saturday. She had a great time...until she fell into the pool and got scared (pic below)...Then on Valentine's Day, we went to church (Vineyard...our new church that I really am happy we found)...hung out at G & G Snyder's house...then back to Daddy's. He bought Brooklin a Valentine Barbie for her gift...so cute;). My Dad and Mom bought Brooklin some balloons with her Valentine gift...well, my dad let one go (thinking Brooklin would like it)...however, the whole way to Daddy's, Brooklin just kept saying "oh no, balloon...papa did it"...lol...needless to say, she had a replacement waiting for her the next day. Boy does she have Papa wrapped around her little finger! Hope you enjoy the pics...and the update...sorry I'm all over the place;).

the "rodeo" balloon...rode this around the house for about a week like it was her horse;)

Yay....ICE CREAM!!!

Welcome to the constant "NO" and "STOP IT" phase...special.

The girl LOVES to color!

Just liked the shirt;)

When Gabba is not on TV...(at least until I finally received the movies I ordered)

SC vs LP (cousin Dan's game)

Yeah, she is pretty much the boss of him...lol

my swimsuit model

Swimming like "Tori"...uhm...until she fell in, freaked her out.

Got stuck in the luggage rack.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Please keep my Aunt Mary Ann in your prayers!!!

Until next time...;)

A few quick things...

2010-02-08T21:09:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Zane and Lauren Cooper on their new daughter Birkley! We are so happy for you!!!

And all you readers, please keep my Aunt in your prayers. Received some bad news about her health this week, and could use prayers for strength and cheer in a tough time...

Thanks;). Will update with pics soon!

22 Months...

2010-01-24T17:06:00.000-08:00

Brooklin has had an exciting year so far:

She wears everything as a hat!
Brooklin's New Year's Eve party at Jen and Sam's...she had a blast...and made it till 12:20 that night! Geez! We had a great time!!!

Her cousins (Aiden, Addison, and Ava) were there to ring in the New Year with her!

Getting tired (thus the hair grab)....and slow dancing with Daddy.

Drinking from her cup at breakfast like a big girl!

Mommy just can't help it;)...love her too much!

Ready to go outside with Mommy.

Watching all that snow with her babies...

Sometimes we move dinner into the living room...it's easier that way!

Painted Piggies...passes the time while we practice on the "big girl potty"...which she is getting better and better at!!!

Hugging on Mason....and Kai... She loves her brothers...sometimes more than they want right now...haha

My future American Idol...lol

Brooklin with Ava...teaching her to be just like her...for better or worse.

Brooklin had her first haircut at Locks of Fun in Valpo! I had been putting it off...obviously for a long time...can't really tell she even got it cut, except for the bangs. She had a great time and was so well behaved! She was able to sit in a Dora jeep and watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse while getting it cut, and then was able to slide and play afterwards...plus they gave her popcorn and juice.

We went and cheered Tori on at her Conference meet...here Brooklin is with Bella and Tori, and then with Cameron, the best babysitter ever!

She's special;)...loves to put on her "hat" and run around the house.

Looks like such a little angel...just remember that looks can be deceiving!

Playing at Vaushna's house with her buddy, Ava!

Hanging out with her brothers...

Brooklin's first "friend" birthday party...Ava turned 1!!! Happy Birthday, Ava! We love you!

The shirt says it all!

Hope you enjoyed the quick update...as usual there are a couple photos I wanted to include, but are still on my phone...and well, it's bath time, so I will get to them when I can:)! xo

January ALREADY?!?!

2010-01-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

So I had good intentions on updating more often...but that is all that happened, my good intentions. Anyway, here is a brief overview of the past few months...Enjoy:)!
Brooklin's Uncle John took some family pictures...which we LOVED! Anybody looking for a photographer, he's your guy;)!
Brooklin looks a little nervous...I think she is worried that she is related to these three crazy guys;).

Here is a pic of Brooklin and her cousins on Brandon's side. Too cute. I love how Addison has her arm around Brooklin.

Our family...

This is what happens when you let a 1 year old dress herself;)

Fun at the mall...taking a break from Christmas shopping!

Leaves...leaves...and more leaves...

Mommy's Birthday!

A new use for her baby bath...it has now become her recliner.

My brother got a new dog...and Brooklin loved him!

Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for!

Donut time! The first snow brought about an old family tradition;).

Yay, Christmas is coming!

My favorite gift!

My big girl!

Do you think her new earmuffs are a little too big???

Getting ready for her first Christmas party at Gramma and Papa's.

Her first tea party...she got her tea set at the party.

Brooklin's first snowman...which she referred to as "HoHo" the brief time he remained standing.

Thanks Aunt Amanda for her new BW's shirt!

Exchanging gifts at Vaushna's...

Christmas Eve at Granny and Poppi's!

The kids getting ready to go to bed and wait for Santa.

Christmas morning...Santa wrote Mason a letter...They were patiently waiting for Daddy to get up;).

Christmas at Grandma and Papa Snyder's house.

Woo woo...a slide!!

Yummmmy popcorn!

Fun in the snow!

We took Backpack everywhere that day!

She amazes me each and every day. She is really talking a lot now, and I can't believe how many words she knows!!! Plus, we have continued working on potty training...am pretty sure that if I would stop being so lazy, she would be trained by now...but getting my butt off the couch and running her to the bathroom a million times a day, just is not fun...but I just have to keep reminding myself of the great outcome...one less expense!!! Oh yeah, and a big girl:). She is still as dangerous as ever with all her climbing and no fear jumping...still working on curbing that a little. Her dancing and singing brings lots of smiles to everyone. Any music that is on instantly makes her wiggle. She is into tv lately. AND she loves Michael Buble. Brandon borrowed a DVD of him playing at MSG in NY and Brooklin absolutely stops everything and sits and watches him over and OVER! I have a bunch more pics to upload from my camera that will truly bring you up to date, but for now, you are atleast brought up to the end of December. Keep watching, I might actually get around to posting them! XOXO

November already!

2009-11-09T12:07:00.000-08:00

Busy busy busy...always busy:)

I just love her...

That's why I like to squeeze her...lol.

Brooklin is Papa's helper at the barn.

She was amazed at the washing machine.

Brooklin is Grandma's helper at home. Anything to do with water, and she is all about it.

Whenever her Aunt Ronda visits, Brooklin likes her to read books to her. It's quite comical watcing her inch closer and closer to Aunt Ronda while she is sitting on the fireplace.

Aunt Ronda taught her that her heart was located way down deep inside her mouth...lol

She's my bookworm...just loves to look at books.

Handing out candy for Trick-or-Treat in Union Mills. They are inseparable.

Here is Brooklin with her cousin Emily...Em's bound and determined to make them best friends...:)

Yay...finally trick-or-treat for Brooklin:)...This is one of my favorite pictures of her...just seems to sum up her personality.

Her outfit was so cute...thanks Granny!

Momma and Brooklin

We celebrated Halloween in LaPorte with Brandon's family.
Here she is with her cousin Addison.
Kai and Mason

I love it when I catch Brandon looking at Brooklin with a smile on his face! It makes me happy!

Here is Brooklin with her cousins Ava, Aiden, and Addison.
Brandon pulled them around on a wagon filled with hay. It's become a tradition, and the kids love it! It's nice for the adults too:)!!

Poor Brooklin...j/k...see what happens when Brandon knows I am going to take a picture.

I look REALLY excited...oh well. It was a great night. This picture was taken close to the end of it. It was a little chilly, but we stayed warm!

On Friday, October 30th, my friend Carrie had a baby boy: Quentin Alexander. We were so excited for the whole family!!!

Brooklin and I went to finally meet Quentin last week. He is absolutely adorable! I instantly fell in love with him:). Great job, Carrie! We are so proud of you!

He was 8lbs 8oz, 21 1/4 in long...Big boy! He's so cute!

Here is baby Q with his proud Grandma. So happy for you, Bobbi! He's going to just love you and Randy!...and Aunt Carmen:). Can't wait to come and cheer him on in little league!

Sometimes it's tough growing up...She's just not ready to give up some of her toys...even if she is too big for them. They just seem to be more fun now.

Plus...she matched her horse:)

Brooklin and her "other momma" Vaushna. She absolutely adores her! And so do I! I'd be lost without her!

And last but certainly not least...my princess;)

Getting closer to Halloween....

2009-10-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

We were able to enjoy some more Halloween fun when we had the boys last weekend. We went out to Coulters again and picked out some pumpkins! Mason, Kai, and Brooklin played in the moon bounce, watched the horses, and were able to run around for a while. It was a great way to let off some steam:).

Here are our scary goblins;).... And here are my scary goblins...haha...j/k!

My three guys working hard at carving! And here is a pic of Brooklin finally getting close to a pumpkin...she decided that she like to try to eat it. Yuck!

And the finished product!

Apparently a balloon artist comes and hangs out at BWs...Daddy had him make Brooklin a balloon doll. She loved it! As for the doll...uhm...she'll never be the same...haha.

Brooklin found a whistle...and she loves it! She figured out how to blow out right away...I was impressed.

She loves her little slinky... and check out her new activity garden. I passed a garage sale the other day...and got this for a great price. We also bought her a basketball hoop...never too early to foster some feelings of competition:).

Notice how she is closing the door? She thinks that if she closes the door on you, she is safe and you can't come inside unless she lets you in. It's her new safe spot when she is in trouble. Quite the smarty...lol

Here is Brooklin and her new favorite game...pulling everything off the couch and jumping all over. She's crazy...but I love her!

She is really getting to be great at expressing herself. Not sure how much I like the fact that when I give her milk now she hands it back and says "juice"...but I guess she's a girl who knows what she wants. She is constantly wanting us to read to her, which makes me happy. Although, we read and read and read the same book over and over a lot of the time. Brooklin is very into singing right now too. She found one of my old microphones and carries it through the house with her. She's amazing...and I LOVE HER!!!

On a side note...Everyone keep an eye on each other...lots of different sicknesses going around. Prayer is needed for everyone! Take care of yourselves!!!!

New Friends and Old Traditions

2009-10-06T19:03:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary (October 7th) to Grandma and Grandpa Snyder...42 years!!! Your love is inspirational! I hope we all find that kind of love in our lives! God bless you both!

And now...Miss Brooklin;)...

Relaxing on the couch, having a drink with a friend...

Brooklin and Tanner FINALLY met! Pretty sure they will be best friends. Just look at how they look at each other...fun playdates in the future...miles may separate them, but that just means we get to go on mini vacays:)!!!

After the Pumpkin Fest in Westville, we went to Coulter's to get Brooklin a pumpkin with Grandma and Grandpa Snyder.

They had lots to do there...plus, lots of open space to run around...her favorite part.

Soooo...I was really excited to get a pumpkin this year. I thought for sure she would love carving it with me. Well, I thought she would at least love the goopy stuff in the middle.

Awe...Mommy's big helper....

Okay...let's be honest here...it didn't quite work out the way I thought it would. She wanted nothing to do with it once she touched the stringy inside...I actually forced her to have a handful, which she looked at in utter disgust and started crying...So, I got to carve a pumpkin, which was still kind of fun...hadn't did that in years. The picture below shows how the whole scene really looked;)...

But it was all worth it...I was able to get some really cute pictures for Halloween cards!!!

I also decided that Brooklin and I would make some brownies...this she had no problem sticking her hands in...lol

What?! Isn't this how you make brownies???

Last but not least...a major breakthru...that is right, Brooklin on a mower...and actually enjoying it! Yay! The noise still often scares her, but at least she is riding on it with a smile!
By the way, I keep forgetting to mention that Brooklin is able to count to 3 now... And that she has went in the potty a couple times. Such a big girl. She's been working on shape recognition with Grandma and Grandpa too. I have truly enjoyed the extra time I have gotten to spend with her since leaving the bank. It's been amazing!!! Sadly, I start back at work this weekend (the mall)...and would do anything to just be with my little girl. Someday we will have time to spend together...just hope she still will want to spend that time with me. To know her is to love her... There is a song out on the radio now that makes me tear up every time I hear it...It's like someone looked into my heart and wrote down my feelings for her...It's called "I Just Call You Mine" by Martina McBride. If you haven't heard it, you should check it out!!!!

Happy Anniversary to the Whites

2009-10-05T20:19:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary to my sister's BFF! (October 6th) Hope you and your hubby have a fabulous day, Lori!

Fall is here....

2009-09-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Having fun with Papa! I think they've found their kindred spirits!

Momma and her big girl.

(left) Brooklin and her cousin Addison...She loves pushing her baby in a stroller! (right) Brooklin and her little buddy Gia, just hanging out.

We were lucky to have her cousin Aiden over to play. She had so much fun with him!

Bathtime fun!

Mill Pond Fest- Yes, she is on her very first solo ride;). She loved the horse...not at first, but by the end, she was jumping up and down wanting it to go faster. (poor pony...such a sad ride).

We went and played at the mill pond. The two swan that you see in the pics were following her wherever she went. She loved it! She kept on "quacking" at them.

Mommy's first day of school...pretty sure this is supposed to be the other way around...but oh well!

Heston Steam Show: Papa always takes the kids on their first train ride. She was such a good girl. Usually loud noises freak her out, but she didn't get scared at all. She had fun!

Little Miss Smarty-Pants figured out that she can move the computer chair all around the house in order to reach things. Pretty quick little one...I'm in trouble!

Here she is with her big brother Kai.

Guse's Christmas Tree Farm, Cam and Jac's Bday party!!! Climbing to the top of the hay bails with Daddy and Jaclyn. She had so much fun playing in the corn! Daddy, you look funny!

Riding the train with her cousin Tori. Tori said she was clapping her hands and asking every second "what's that???"....

She's a shoe girl;).

She's officially a year and a half now. Getting smarter and smarter...amazing me with the things she knows. Celebrated Daddy's birthday on the 22nd by learning how to sing Happy Birthday...she actually does a pretty decent job at it. She's always singing something though. Still climbing on EVERYTHING...and jumping off of everything with no fear...just getting smarter about moving things over to climb on them...often find her sitting on the table or in the window sill. Crazy kid! She still loves the outdoors, and as of today can open Grandma and Papa's screen door to get out on her own...thank God for locks! I think they were invented to keep kids in...not bad guys out...lol. Anyway, she is very stubborn and only does things when she is ready...no pushing that one. And if she really wants something, she will get it. Strong-willed!!! She is getting pretty good at saying "please" and "thank you" for things. Her vocabulary is getting stronger. My patience is often tested...quite the button pusher...but man do I love her! Blessed doesn't even begin to describe the feeling I get when I look at her...or when she hugs me or kisses me for no reason. Time is going sooo fast!

The White's

2009-09-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Please pray for the White family! One of their daughter's was in a car accident today. Keep the whole family in your prayers...and the families of all involved. Thanks!

Bumps and Bruises

2009-07-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

Better late than never...

Happy Father's Day!

Fun with Daddy on his special day!

Papa Jones, Daddy, and Papa Snyder

Swimming with Grandma Snyder

Kai's 4th Birthday!

And the after-party;)

Brooklin had a little accident at her sitter's house...

water + concrete floor = trip to the ER

Daddy made it fun though! She's too tough for her own good. Barely cried, even when it happened. I think Vaushna was more traumatized from the fall than Brooklin was.

Poor baby! Doesn't even look like her, does it?!
After the trip to the ER, the doctor's office 4 days later, and another trip to the hospital for x-rays, it ended up not being broken! Thank God! We were told to watch the swelling and if it didn't go down within the next month, that she would possibly need to see a ENT doctor and possibly surgery. We've been praying a lot that the swelling would go down, and so far, I really see a major improvement. Got to love the power of prayer!
Dreaming about the game already...that's my girl!

Brooklin and Papa's doll...best of friends

The La Porte County Fair

No trip to the fair is complete without a blow up monkey, right?!?! Couldn't pass it up:)...she loved it!

Brooklin has continued to increase her vocabulary and animal sounds...amazes us all the time with her ability to imitate what we say. She has learned to say "love you" which of course melts my heart! She can make a fish face, neigh like a horse, and sniff when she hears the word flower. She has shown us that she is a little bit of drama every once in a while, with her new found sense of independence and knowing what she wants to do and what she doesn't want to do. Anything asked in a questioning tone will get her response of "noooo"...AND we are pretty sure that she is practicing for a future career as a WalMart greeter. She says "hi" to everyone!...and will continue saying "hi" until she gets a response. She has learned to jump...not much of a vertical yet...but at least she keeps from falling on her bottom...most of the time. Brooklin now knows to put up one finger when I ask her how old she is. I do have to say "one" and then she puts it up...pretty proud of that though. She's stubborn, strong, smart, and full of life! I couldn't ask for a better little girl...sometimes a better behaved little girl;)...but never a better little girl. I think God found me the missing piece to truly make my life happy! We are a perfect fit:)!

Please remember to keep the Jones family in your prayers! And I hope you enjoy the new pics!!

Prayer

2009-07-24T08:33:00.001-07:00

So, I know everyone has been waiting for me to update this blog...but as usual, I have let time slip away from me...big surprise. I will be updating with pictures very soon...possibly this weekend...no promises;)...
Just wanted to ask for prayers for Brooklin's Great-Grandpa Jones. He is going through a hard time right now, and I strongly believe in the power of prayer at times like this. Please pray for God to lay his healing hand upon him and to give him peace. I can't imagine this world without him in it...he's a great man with a great heart...with a lot of people who love him. If it is his time, I do hope you will all pray for a wonderful journey to Heaven! If he is meant to stay with us, I pray for a speedy recovery! He's a fighter though, and I don't think he is ready to go yet...the main reason more than likely being his wife...hard to let go after all this time. He loves her dearly. They are both feisty and keep us smiling....reminds of what love really is. Marriages that survive all these years like that give the rest of us hope that true love does exist! Please pray for all of Brandon's family at this time, and please ask for strength for all of them. They will need it no matter what the outcome of the current situation. Pray for hearts to open up and love and fond memories to fill them! Thank you all for taking the time to talk to God today! We truly appreciate it!!! As always, you are all in my prayers too;)! xo

Growing and Growing....

2009-06-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

Mommy's little model:)...looks so grown up in this pic.

Mommy and Brooklin...doesn't she look pouty (FYI, Daddy was mowing, and she hates the lawnmower).

Went to the zoo with Daddy, me, Mason, and Kai.

Also, went and hung out with her cousins Ava (pictured), Aiden, and Addison....she had lots of fun!

Daddy took us out on the boat...it was her first time and she loved it! Also, here's a pic of her and her brothers!

Papa and Grandma Snyder took us to the park! It was a lot of fun! Her and my dad are best friends...it's cute!

Loves her water table! Thanks Aunt Amanda and Uncle John!

Look how cute her new swimsuit is...thanks Gramma!...oh and quite the bathing beauty, eh:)!

I'm pretty sure this is how every day of the summer will end...she plays hard!

Miss Brooklin has been very busy playing outside now that we finally have decent weather...and when inside she is into everything too...quite a busy little girl. She is very into reading lately, and often brings a book over to me so that I will read to her. She has learned how to say "book". Very cute! She has decided that she is also very funny...cracks herself up...and of course everyone else too:). Had to have blood drawn last week as a routine to check for lead levels and anemia...was supposed to be done at 1 year, but I kept putting it off. Poor baby has bad veins like her momma and Grandma...awful! But as usual she was a trooper. Go on Friday for her next doctor visit. Can't wait to see how big she's gotten! Not sure where my baby went...but the big girl I have right now, I sure do love:)!

CONGRATULATIONS

2009-05-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS to Mom and Dad Leedle!!! Brooklin is very excited about her new friend born yesterday, Tanner Quinn Leedle! We love her already! Great job, Chels!!! :)

Last 4 Months

2009-04-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

Time flies...one year already! What an exciting year it has been...full of lots of memories...and new experiences! Brooklin has blessed our lives in such an unimaginable way! I thank God every day for blessing me with the most wonderful girl in the world!

Our baby girl turned "1" on March 19th. We had a Tinkerbell party! Brandon and my family actually shared in the day together under one roof! Very monumental;). We had a great time! Good food and great company!

Daddy and Brooklin at her party!
Her Tinkerbell cakes....before

....and after...yummy cake!

Papa, can I help you rake leaves???
She absolutely LOVES being outside!!! Tries to get out every chance she gets!

Easter Sunday....Brooklin's 1st 2nd holiday...if that makes any sense at all??? Notice the picture in the window...her favorite place to climb onto...climbs on EVERYTHING!
Easter Egg Hunt...finally caught the hang of it after 3 different hunts...the first one she was more interested in the sticks...by the 3rd she enjoyed looking for the eggs...and picking dandelions:).

CAUGHT in the act! ;)

We went to Crichfield and played on the playground with her brothers and Daddy...once again, climbing!...and the slide picture courtesy of Daddy making her go down a big slide all alone...and of course, since she is his child=daredevil...she loved it!

So much fun!

Mason, Kai, Daddy, and Brooklin

Loves brushing her teeth!
Huggin on her babydoll.

Major updates: has been walking for a couple months now...enjoys going up and down stairs a lot!...talking more...recently learned to say "stop it" while pointing (man, I must say that a lot)...climbs constantly (amazing the places she has learned to climb onto)...smarter than I often expect...can now make a cow, dog, duck, and pig noise (so funny)...likes to sing with Papa Snyder...thinks she is quite the comedian (inherited from her Dad!!!)...no fear...eats big people food...no more pacifier...drinks milk...brushes her teeth...gives the best kisses and hugs in the world!!!...growing WAY too fast!

My goal as usual is to try to keep this more up to date...as Brandon's Sister and Brother-in-law said..."a picture a week shouldn't be hard to do"...lol...uhm...how often do they update their blog??? haha...just kidding guys! Growing families take up way too much time, huh! Love you all...and be on the lookout...you never know, I just might update within the next couple months...;)

A Brand New Year....

2009-01-10T10:32:00.000-08:00

So, I have once again let time get away from me... Brooklin is now almost 10 months old. We survived Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's:). It was actually lots of fun! In November, I turned another year older, and to be honest it was the best yet. It meant so much more having Brooklin there with me! Of course it meant a lot having my family and Brandon there with me too!...very special. Then came Thanksgiving...it was busy as usual. We started off at Granny's and then back to Grandma and Papa Snyder's. Brooklin was able to spend some time with her brother's at Granny's. She always enjoys that! Christmas seemed to creep up on us this year! But as usual, everything fell into place. It always seems like it won't, but Christmas has a way of working itself out. On Christmas Eve, we went to Gramma and Papa Jones's house. Brooklin had lots of fun! She loves playing with all her cousins...especially having twin cousins that are kind of close to her age. It is good for her...it makes her try new things...she already wants to be bigger than she is...however, Momma's not ready!!! Then on Christmas Brooklin and I went to Grandma and Papa Snyder's for an early morning gift exchange...hard for me to stop doing that. I am not really ready to grow up either:). We then went back up and woke up Daddy. He went and picked up the boys (Mason and Kai), and we met them at Granny and Poppi's. We had a great time...lots of presents and quality family time. Then, the boys, Daddy, Brooklin, and I traveled back to Union Mills for our Snyder family Christmas. It's always a mad house...lots of people and things going on...a big whirlwind...and I love it! I wouldn't have it any other way! On New Year's Eve, we went to Auntie's house. We had a Wii bowling tournament. I was out in the first round...and then Brooklin and I fell asleep on the couch by 10:30. Luckily Grandma and Papa were ready to go home around 11. I was wide awake for the passing of 2008. Stared at Brooklin the very last minute of the year and the very first of the new one. It was special to me. She made 2008 the best year yet! I was so blessed and I know that the blessings will grow each year I have with her. Daddy had to work, so we kept in contact by phone. Besides all the holidays, Brooklin is growing and learning like crazy! She's almost walking...cruising around furniture, and pushing her toys around. She loves her veggies, Elmo, clapping, water...and loves music. She is quite the dancer and has developed a very humorous head shaking thing. She's a character. She still is bringing much happiness to my life and teaching me more everyday. Who knew I would learn so much from a baby... She keeps me on the go...quick little girl! And we haven't really mastered what "no" means....well, I haven't anyway. She just smiles...sometimes laughs...and continues with her business. I've got my work cut out for me....so does Daddy! But I am ready...and so glad that I've been given the opportunity to take this job! So, anyway, here is to a great 2009! May God bless you all this year and all the ones to follow! xoxo

I'm a Big Girl now!

2008-11-08T20:32:00.000-08:00

Here we go.... A couple weeks ago, I looked over at Brooklin while Brandon was reading a bedtime story with the boys, and to my surprise, she was standing up?!?! I thought it was just a fluke, but since then, it is hard to keep her from pulling up on everything...or at least attempting to! She especially likes to stand in her crib and slowly let go with one hand, then the other, fall on her bottom, look at me and wait for "Yay.." and claps:). It's her favorite game. She also began crawling shortly after....and now, I can't keep her still. She's a fast little girly! All of this leading to a first of I'm sure many bruises and scratches. She has gotten both top front teeth this past week, which brings the tooth count up to 4. (Knock on wood) she is still a great teether...I've so far lucked out and only know she is teething by the occasional whimper, fever, but usually just extra quiet baby. We did have to go to the doctor again...that darn cold just kept hanging on and it started to make me nervous. They ended up telling us it was an ear infection, giving us some medicine, and sending us on our way. I am not sure if it was an "ear infection"...she never pulled on her ears once, but the medicine did kick the runny nose and cough...so thank God for that! Halloween was a lot of fun. We went to Brooklin's Aunt Janel and Uncle Nick's house, where we were able to see all of her cousins (on Brandon's side) in their costumes:). Then, Brandon pulled everyone on a wagon with hay behind his truck around the neighborhood. Brooklin and I rode up front...it was FREEZING! She ended up wearing her Tinkerbell costume. She looked very cute. All the kids looked very cute! And I think everyone had a great time (despite it being very cold!). We didn't make it out for trick-or-treating in Union Mills though. I got off of work too late, so we just ended up hanging out at Grandma and Papa Snyder's and waited for all of her cousins (on my side) to show up. They all looked great too! And she didn't seem scared by any of the costumes either. Babies don't have much fear though...they are the lucky ones! Last month, we also were able to make Donuts due to the first snow. Brooklin enjoyed it, although it was a little past her bedtime...we started kind of late this year...but rules are rules, and we had to make them on the day of the first snow. So, all in all, life is going good. Baby girl is getting bigger all the time....staying happy....and we are falling in love with her more and more with every passing day!

So Many Changes!

2008-10-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

So my baby girl is growing up faster and faster all the time. Let's see...since the last blog, Brooklin has gotten two bottom teeth, is sitting herself up, and is starting to crawl! She is in the very early stages of the crawling thing, but did move a bit today. She is very mobile for not being able to really crawl yet. If she wants something, she will get it! She's a determined and STUBBORN little girl! We went with Brandon, Mason, Kai, Granny, Aunt Amanda, Uncle John, Ava, Aiden, and Addison to Garwoods a couple weeks ago. We had a really nice time. Brooklin got her first pumpkin. All the kids enjoyed themselves...I think the big kids did too:). Last week, my parents and I took Brooklin to Guse's Cornmaze and took some pictures there. We didn't stay too long though, because Granny had gotten us tickets to go and see a Globe-trotter-like basketball game at LPHS. We had a good time there too. We did have to take a trip to the ER last week... She was coughing so bad she started choking and then kept choking...but they gave her a steroid and we came home. She is still battling the cold, but I think that she is working on getting a top tooth. Brandon has been doing some remodeling at the house too...and I think the dust isn't helping...you should see how great it looks though! He's been working hard, and it's amazing how much different it makes it look!!! As far as food is concerned, forget what I said about not liking chicken...we are back to eating everything without a problem! She's such a good girl! Today she is officially 7 months old. I think this past month has went faster than all the others...she has accomplished quite a lot of milestones! She's still a happy little girl and full of personality. Still so blessed to have her in our lives! Have some Halloween costumes picked out for her...it's between a duck or Tinkerbell. Guess we will see what she's feeling on that day:). Her brothers are going to both be Darth Vadar...or Dark Vadar as Mason likes to call it... and Dark Badar as Kai would say:). I am looking forward to Trick or Treating...Hopefully I'll have some neat pics for ya!

6 Months

2008-09-21T08:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been so long since I last updated this blog...we've been busy and I've been lazy when we were actually at home. Brooklin just turned 6 months old on Friday. At her doctor's appointment, she was 17 lbs 11 oz, and 28 3/4 inches long. She has been doing great with her food, and is finally able to move up to Gerber 2nd foods! She tried Chicken and Vegetables last night for dinner...and she hated it. It's the first thing she hasn't liked...I wonder if it is because she's never tasted that before...not even in my belly...hmmm... Well, she only had a few bites and then threw it all up. Poor baby. We are going to try it again tonight though. How sad for her! Besides the more recent things....she has been to a football game, volleyball game, and her first Mill Pond Fest. She is now sitting up all by herself, and hates laying down. She's still nosey and stubborn...and still smiley. She's been working on a bottom tooth for a week now. Not too crabby about it, but I can tell it has been bothering her. She has quite a personality...blowing bubbles and growling all the time! She's quite a talker too (well, she babbles all the time...her talking). She's very active and wants to get everything. She catches on quickly to things that her toys do. I think she is a little smarty! Anyway, we are excited for Halloween next month...not sure what she will be yet, but it will be fun taking her out. I'm anxious to see how she reacts to all the costumes...should be interesting!

My Heart

2008-08-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how quickly she is growing up. I know they say time flies...but really, it does! This week we have continued on practicing sitting up...she's getting better all the time. Her cousins came over and went swimming with her the other day (that's her with Auntie)...the more she was splashed, the more she laughed...my little daredevil. She is getting to be quite the personality. When I picked her up from her Granny's house today, she was so happy...laughing and laughing. You can't help but laugh right along with her. She can definitely brighten up your day. She's getting better with holding her own bottle now -tends to get a little lazy about it, but I would too if I knew someone would just feed it to me:). She is also starting to put her pacifier in her mouth on her own- still only takes it when she is ready to sleep. Moved on to peas, loved them! She's such a good little eater. Went to her first high school football "meet the team" to see her cousin QB. She ended up falling asleep, but it lasted pretty late. She enjoyed it up to that point though. She's a very scheduled child (a schedule she made herself- God bless her)....when it is 8:00 she is ready for bed! Well, that is about it...just loving my baby girl and life with her in it!

Cubs or Sox???

2008-08-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

Brooklin is still doing very well with the eating. Starting peas tomorrow, so that should be interesting:). Uncle Ernie is trying to make her a Sox fan....she's wearing a Sox hat in one of the pictures. I don't think her daddy would like that too much, but Papa would. We've been working at the sitting up and she is getting better. Starting to wonder if she is cutting teeth... that should be good times. She's so amazing. Everyday I just look at her and can't believe she is actually here in my arms. I prayed for her for so long and God actually blessed me with her. Not sure if I ever did anything to deserve her....but thankfully God gave me a chance with her anyway. I just am so proud of her. She makes me happy even when other things in my life get tough. I'm so lucky! Mommy loves you, Brookin!

Flying Baby.....

2008-08-02T06:04:00.000-07:00

Not much new to report this week. Brooklin has been doing great with the eating. She loves her some food!!! She did get to go to her first movie with Vaushna and the kids... Guess her eyes were really big and then the next time Vaush looked at her, she was sleeping. Funny kid. Besides that, we have just been hanging out. We have started working on sitting up. That's going to be a long process. Poor baby:). She loves playing "flying baby". It always makes her laugh...I've included a pic of her and her Uncle E when she was in her Superbaby onesie with cape (from Vaushna). She has also started blowing bubbles all the time. She thinks she is so funny! Such a big girl! We are going to a birthday party today for her cousins, so she'll have a fun day full of lots of different faces. I think it gets boring sometimes just looking at Mommy. At least she gets lots of company at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Her Aunts and Uncles and Cousins are always stopping by to visit. She loves it! Until next week.....

Mmmmm....food

2008-07-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

This week Brooklin has been very busy learning how to eat real food. We went to the doctor on Monday, and he said everything looked great..."very advanced" to be exact:)...sorry, I'm proud of that one. She weighed 15 lbs 14 oz and was 26 3/4 in long. What a big girl! She had to get shots again...and yes, I did cry....but she did great! That night, she tried rice cereal for the first time. Wasn't too sure of it at first, but by the end, she was grabbing the spoon and sucking on it. Since then, she has had the cereal twice a day. Yesterday, she tried sweet potatoes for the first time. That is an interesting thing to see....she is definitely not sure of that one...but it's a work in progress and I'll keep trying, as will she. Besides that, we've just been hanging out. She found her feet a few days ago and has been trying very hard to reach them to her mouth...well, today she succeeded. She was happy, and I was grossed out...yet, somehow, I felt pride in her accomplishment. Funny how that works. She had worked so hard, I was kind of glad to see her finally do it! Guess it's okay until she gets to be more mobile...then, that will have to stop:). She also got a new baby einstein jumper thing from Grandma and Papa Snyder. She doesn't really know how to jump yet, but she sure loves all the neat things to play with....especially the green spinning frog. Well, that's about all for this week. She's doing great!!!

Four Months Old

2008-07-19T11:50:00.001-07:00

Brooklin is four months old today! I can't believe it is here already. What a big girl! For the past week, she has slept all night every night. We go to the doctor on Monday for her four month appointment, which unfortunately means more shots. It's for her own good though...I have to keep telling myself that one. I think I cried just as much as she did at her two month appointment. Anyway, we should be able to start on some rice cereal then. I am anxious to see how she likes it. She's quite a good eater, so I think she'll do great. My mom put her high chair together last night, so we broke it in today. She seems to like it okay....enjoys being able to see everything and grabbing at her toys. It's amazing...just the other day, she was this helpless little thing who could only lay there, and now I can't seem to keep her occupied long enough. She gets bored easily, like her Momma....well, and Daddy too. Still loving every minute of it. Happy Birthday, baby girl!

Pool Time

2008-07-12T16:31:00.001-07:00

Today was Brooklin's first time in a big pool. She went in her purple kiddie pool that her Grandma and Grandpa Snyder bought her last week...and she kind of lounged in it like it was her bath tub. Well, today we attempted the big pool and she LOVED it. She just kept kicking and kicking...it was too funny. She's definitely going to be my water baby....and she should be. She's a pisces and "Brook" means brook or stream while "lin" means either beautiful jade or more importantly waterfall or pool below a waterfall...or so my baby name book says:). So, she was destined to love the water. She's so cute! -not that I'm biased or anything. Getting bigger every second. We go to the doctor a week from Monday for her 4 month appointment. Can't believe she's already that old...time is flying by!

A little info....

2008-07-05T17:53:00.001-07:00

So, I am starting this blog a few weeks before Brooklin turns 4 months old. It is crazy how time is flying!!! To bring you all up to date, here is a little info about her life up until now: She was born at LaPorte hospital on March 19, 2008 at 2:06 am. She weighed 8 lbs 9.5 oz and was 21 inches long. We (Brandon and I) named her Brooklin Noelle Jones. We had been discussing Brooklin for while, but it took us a few days to actually name her...she was called random things the first few days. The "lin" in her name is for her Grandma (Linda) and I guess her Auntie (Gretchen Lynn) and the "Noelle" is after Brandon's sister Amanda Noelle. And of course the "Jones" is after her daddy:). I was unsure of the name for a while, but now I couldn't imagine her being called anything else...guess it grows on you. I had to be induced, but once I was, she came pretty quickly...couldn't wait to get out and see the world. Her first hour here with us, she was wide awake, taking it all in....and never crying. That's how she still is. She genuinely is a happy baby, only cries right before she goes to sleep....I think she is just so afraid she'll miss something. She's quite the busy body...always scanning the room, taking it all in...just like when she was born. A couple days after she was born, she got to meet her two big brothers (Mason-6 and Kai-3). They are Brandon's two boys from his previous relationship. She sure loves them. And I am pretty sure they love her too:). She has had many firsts already (from baseball games to her own personal firsts such as rolling over). She is a smart baby (I'm biased I know), follows sound well, has great eyesight, and coos all the times. She is babysat by my best friend, Vaushna (unfortunately, I had to go back to the bank...yuck). Brooklin loves her...just smiles and smiles when Vaushna talks to her...plus she has 4 kids who are great with her too...Leo, her husband, is very good with her also. They have truly welcomed her as part of their family! I couldn't have better friends in my life. On Saturdays, Brandon's mom (Granny) babysits her. They love their walks they get to take together and Brooklin enjoys when Granny sings to her! When they aren't helping me out, my parents are there. They have been amazing throughout this entire experience...always willing to drop anything to help me out. I will never be able to repay them for all they have done, but I will make sure Brooklin knows how wonderful they truly are! Most recent big events would be her laughter, rolling all over the place, and being able to really grab onto things (very strong grasp). She is so funny when she laughs. When I sing to her, she just stares at me and coos along the whole time with a smile on her face. It just melts you. Brooklin also loves her bath time. As soon as I start to get her ready, it's like she knows and she starts smiling and smiling. She definitely was a surprise in my life...but God sure knew what he was doing. She is such a blessing in all of our lives. I pray that I will be a great mother to her and that Brandon will be a great father. She deserves wonderful parents, like I have. I will keep you all posted as to her continued growth and learning in her new life here on Earth. I read today that when a baby is born, so is a mother. How true. I didn't know I could love someone so much...and there she was, this little baby girl who needed me so much...and ironically, I found that I needed her so much too. And every day, I think it would be impossible to love her any more...and then I wake up the next day and realize it is possible. She makes every accomplishment up until now dim in comparison. It has been quite the learning process for me. I ask millions of questions all the time, read all the books, and annoy my family (although they are wonderful and help me out all the time!). What a miracle life is... Pregnancy, birth, and motherhood are just amazing. I am so glad I was given the chance to experience it.