Another Week Full of Activities!

We had another exciting week with Brooklyn. With each one, she continues to learn more and more.

We added the legs to one of Brooklyn's Christmas gifts. As you can see, she is now able to stand up and play. Of course close supervision is still needed. Thanks Uncle Steve, Aunt Liz, and Cousins Logan & Olivia.

Ah, a nice 60 degree January day. Off to the park we go! Val and Brooklyn were able to take advantage of some great winter weather. This is actually her second trip to the park. A few weeks back we had another nice day but didn't bring our digital camera. Although the swings are a little big for her, she still really enjoys it. We can't wait till Spring gets here!!!

Time for a little rest and relaxation to give the other kids a chance to enjoy the swings.

Brooklyn was able to enjoy a little slide time as well. No head firsts this time but I'm sure it won't be too far down the road.

Enjoying the jungle gym bridge.

This week also gave Charlie some pool time with Brooklyn. Here is Charlie having her work on her back stroke. The arms need some work but the legs move really well. Just look how high that left leg is out of the water. :)

Even though the pool water was a little chilly, nothing like a little father/daughter bonding time!!

Daredevil

Brooklyn is getting bigger everyday and now enjoys jumping off the furniture. Not sure but she may have been motivated by seeing her older cousins doing it at Mema's house:) While there really is not much "jumping" involved, she really seems to enjoy scooting to the edge and letting you catch her.

Little Fish

This week Val and Brooklyn started their swimming class. The weather was perfect for it, ten degrees! Luckily the class is indoors. So far she seems to enjoy it. It is a little late in her day but she makes it through the whole class. Keeping warm in her new bovine outfit thanks to the Browns.
Smiling on her first day.

Working on her kicks.

After class Brooklyn got into her new PJs.

Last but not least, here is a little video of us in action. There is still a lot of work to be done but we have 10 more sessions before going off the diving board.

:) Just kidding......

Splish Splash

I was taking a bath.....

Brooklyn has officially graduated from her personal tub to sitting up in the tub. She seems to really enjoy splashing in the water. This is great cause Val and Brooklyn start a swim class this week. There will surely be some splishing and splashing to blog about.


Of course no bath would be fun without a few toys. Here is Brooklyn enjoying her pink rubber duckie from her cousins Logan and Olivia. Thanks!!!

Brooklyn's First Christmas

Well, we have just a little more Christmas time that we would like to share.

Cognac getting a Christmas petting. He was more than willing to let Brooklyn pet him. He is very gentle but able to take some rough love, Brooklyn Love, which was perfect.

Brooklyn was fascinated by her doll. She would light up and start smiling when she saw her. The doll was almost as big as her. Thanks Grandpa Rey!

Sporting her new Kansas City Royals hat. Who knows, maybe Brooklyn will be their good luck charm this season. Grandpa Richard got us all some Royals gear so we can be ready for the upcoming season. Thanks Grandpa!!! It means a lot more coming from a hard core Yankee fan. But, Charlie feels like it was a fair trade given the Yankee photo/frame you received.

Mmmm...Brooklyn enjoying her Christmas toast. With nudging from the Nelson grandparents we decided to let Brooklyn try some "big girl food." It got a bit messy but she really enjoyed it.

And the winner for most creative gift goes to.....

The Larsons! They covered their present to Brooklyn with bows, lots of bows!

In closing, we would just like to say we ENJOYED our trip out to California. It's always nice to share some irreplaceable memories with family & friends. I know we weren't able to fit everything or everyone in but there will be more trips out. Until next time.......

Social Butterfly

Brooklyn was a mingling machine in California. Terri and Gordon, close friends of Val's parents, came over for a visit.

Checking out Gordon, Val's godfather.

Here's uncle Ryan and Brooklyn bonding.

We were able to take a trip over and eat lunch at a restaurant we used to frequent when living in California. Hassan is the reason we go. He's great and even cut our wedding cake on our wedding day.

Grandma was all smiles whenever Brooklyn was around.

Great Grandpa Rey made certain to come by and entertain Brooklyn too.

Having fun with Grandpa.