Holy Moly ....Can She Really Be 36?

Famous sister pose at birthday time...notice the blaze of candles--it is so beautiful!

Many memories have come to me as I have reflected on that snowy day that Kim hurried to take a final at BYU before taking me to the hospital for our first delivery ...first girl.  First everything kinda of experience.  I remember Kim being embarrassed when I became so exhausted and in so much pain that I cried out.  That was unexpected.  Kinda like the movies but much more low key.  That first baby is a steep learning curve.  We lived in a tiny one bedroom fourplex.  Kim was going to school and working part time.  He was in a Presidency ( we had Branches) and had lots going on.  I didn't realize how nice it was at the time that all I had to do was take care of the baby and keep the home fires burning.  I read all the Classics when Brooke took naps.  It was a great life.  I don't miss it however and enjoy being a grandmother even more.

 

Here is Brooke on the day we came home from the hospital.  Kim's mom had made a cake. 

Here is Kim's mom when Brooke was a few days old.

BYU apartment

    

Here I am on Mother's Day when Brooke was a few months old.
She was a rather fussy baby.  She hasn't changed.  She never drooled or liked the dirt.  When she crawled she would crawl with straight legs so she wouldn't have to put her knees in any possible grossness.  

A few months old

Brooke when she was one year old

Winston when he turned one

Happy Birthday Brooke.  You are a great friend, daughter, wife and mother.  You willingly share your talents and are always looking for ways to surprise and do things for others.  You have been a great example for all your siblings to follow and I know that they are grateful for you being the oldest and having us learn on you.  Hope you have a great year being 36.