I have never really been one to keep track of what’s going on in my life by the means of a journal or diary, so the idea of a blog really never interested me (other than the journaling that I add to some scrapbook pages). Ryan had one years ago. I enjoyed reading it, but I never considered one of my own.

However, over the past month there have been several occasions that made me reconsider. First, I started writing emails where I would discuss the complete nonsense caused by the drama queen in my life. I would send the emails to a list of people close to me. I got several comments that I should start a blog. Maybe some day I’ll share the content of those emails on this site. Second, a certain pastor I know started up his own blog. Normally this wouldn’t even phase me, but this pastor is so nontechnical that he doesn’t even read his email. He has his secretary print them out and he hand writes his responses on the print out. If he can write a blog, then the internets are ready for me!

I still didn’t immediately make a decision. The point when I finally told Ryan, “I’m doing it” was after I saw a site where this women was talking about this garland she had made and sold out of on her etsy site. Honestly, I looked at the garland and thought “that’s the dumbest thing I have ever seen, and people are buying it.” Now I love making all kinds of crafty things, and I thought that selling some of my crafts would be a good way to make some extra money.

Now all I needed was a shop name. I had a stamp made a few months ago that reads ”Created by Brooke with Love.” I had Ryan check domain names because I wanted to start a blog as well. I have started reading blogs over the past year, and I am amazed at the great sense of community. Through blogs, you can feel less alone in the world. I have felt close to moms struggling with parenting, women who lost their children, crafters who can’t stop buying scrapbook supplies, and several people who are just getting by day by day. I wanted to be a part of that too.

“by Brooke with Love” was born. I hope you enjoy this site whether you are family or friends stopping by to see what’s new in our lives or someone we have yet to meet that is interested in the items I have made or what I have to say about things. Thanks for going on this journey with me.

It’s so hard to believe that Ryan and I started dating a little less than 7 years ago. I would have never imagined my life to be has wonderful as it is. Sure there have been difficulties and set backs, but I feel so blessed that I get to live my life with such a wonderful person.

This was taken the first time we celebrated his birthday together.

I want to spend the next 70 years with you! You complete me. You’re my lobster! Happy 26th!

Here’s a song for you!

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.