The Fun has Just Begun!

Last week we officially started the potty training. We started using the "training pants" underwear, but she just kept wetting through them, and I couldn't tell. Then I decided to go to the "naked" method. Since we have wood floors, I thought I'd just grab her if she started going and put her on the potty. Even though we've made some progress I feel like I have no idea what I'm doing! I didn't realize how long the process is.

Here's Brooklynn getting comfortable on the pot with her rabbit and blankie. She loves to just sit on the potty for a long time. It's pretty funny!

What a Fun Day!

My last day of work was Wednesday, so we decided to kick the summer off right with a day at the museum with Heather, Kiley, and Kaitlyn. The girls had a good time, and it was neat to see Brooklynn and Kiley interact with each other.

Brooklynn hamming it up at the stage area

Doing the puzzles with Kiley

Kaitlyn passed out, but of course the other 3 went strong all day!

After our naps we met Jackson and Greg at the water park for some more fun. Even Chandler got her feet wet!

Brooklynn and Jackson unsure of what to do!

Memorial Day Weekend!

Memorial Day Weekend is always a great time - 3 days off, warm weather, and barbeques! Unfortunately I got really sick Thursday night, had to call in Friday and then was sick all weekend! It was the nastiest flu bug I've ever had! What a way to spend the weekend...and Steve enjoyed taking care of 3 babies! They did get out of the house on Sunday and met Grandma and Grandpa at the zoo. Here' s a few pictures of their day. Brooklynn riding the carousel with grandpa
Chandler just chillin' (check out the thighs)

Our favorite niece turns 8!

A couple weeks ago was Miss Makenzie's 8th birthday. I can't believe it's already been 8 years - I still remember sitting in the hospital waiting room like it was yesterday. We started with manicures & pedicures on Sunday followed by dinner and cake at our house with Papa. Monday we went to Casa Bonita with Makenzie's friends and Grandma for some cliff divers and fancy food. A fun time was had by all. Brooklynn wasn't ecstatic about it, but soon enough she better learn to love that place!

Happy Birthday sweetie - we love you so much! Brooklynn is always down for celebrating birthdays!

Brooklynn helping Kenz open her gifts

Birthday Party Season!

'Tis the season for birthday parties - and extravagant ones at that! Last weekend we went to Cousin Tyler's 3rd birthday. Brooklynn loved the sandbox, the jump house, and the snowcones!

Tyler & Brooklynn jumping!

Enjoying her 1st snowcone! Delicious!

This weekend was Chase's 2nd birthday party. The weather was super windy, but that didn't stop the kids from having a good time. There were so many little ones running around - it made us realize how much our lives have changed. Instead of chatting around a keg we're chatting around a sandbox. Chase was such a cutie and enjoyed running around with all the kids. At the end of the party he planted a few smooches on Brooklynn, but of course I didn't have the camera ready.

Brooks with Chandler

Brooklynn & Madison drenching themselves at the water table
Brooklynn having fun again on the jump house. This time she was more daring going down the slide head-first!

Early Retirement

So the decision has been finalized......I'll be staying home next year with the girls. I was offered a part-time teaching position again for next year, but with two little ones the priorities have really changed! The past 2 1/2 years have gone by too fast, and I've realized that I need to be here with the girls. I'm excited to stay home with them and experience all the moments everyday! I feel very blessed to have the option to stay home - thanks for that one Steve! They will hold my job for up to 2 years, and with this economy I'm lucky to have that option. We'll see what the future holds........

One Happy Mama....

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family and thankful we were all able to get together for such a meaningful weekend. Saturday morning we celebrated Mother's Day with Grandma Betsy with Andy, Makenzie, and us. Saturday afternoon was the best - napping with Brooklynn! She has never done well sleeping with us, so it must've been an early Mother's Day present! Saturday evening we had the Deegans and Startzels over for dinner. After the kiddos went to bed, we broke out Catan!

Sunday my wonderful husband made us breakfast - waffles, bacon, and fruit. He is the waffle king! Then we headed out to the zoo - a popular place for Mother's Day. Who would've thought? Now Brooklynn understands the "choo choo", and that's all she wants to do. Uh oh!

Riding the carousel with daddy

Sunday afternoon we drove to G & G Wesling's for dinner and another Mother's Day celebration. Brooklynn was such a ham and entertained us all! Here she is giving me my gift. (She doesn't stay still long enough for a posing picture)

The girls!

My wonderful husband is great at making sure my Mother's Day is always special, but of course, just having two healthy beautiful babies is enough for me! Brooklynn & Chandler - I absolutely love being your mommy. You make every day just a little more special, and I'm looking forward to spending even more time with you next year! Love you my princesses!