This is 4

To my daughter on her birthday,

Well, it’s official…you are four years old! Or, as you would say, “I’m a big girl!” And yes, you are a “big girl” in so many ways yet still my little baby in so many others.

You are a “big girl” in the way you’re able to communicate your thoughts and emotions so clearly, tell your own stories, problem solve, create your own logic, help Dad make pancakes and banana bread, help Mom fold the laundry and get up from the floor after doing a puzzle (it’s tough these days with a growing belly!), help feed Wally, play in your room by yourself with the door shut (“I want to be alone”) and make your own bed.

But, thankfully for me, you’re still my little baby in the way you love to snuggle up against my shoulders as I read you stories, curl up in my lap when you need comfort, welcome all the hugs and kisses I give you, hold my hand when we’re out and about, and on occasion, want to be carried just because.

It’s been so fun and entertaining to watch you continue to make sense of the world around you and grow into your own person. You have so much personality and people around you are naturally drawn to you. We can’t take you out in public without someone commenting about how cute you are or how well-behaved you are (most of the time) or just smiling at you as they pass by.

You love going out to eat at restaurants and ordering macaroni and cheese, playing “family” with your dolls and Barbies, putting together puzzles, reading books, going to Walgreens and pushing the small cart, playing with Ava, swimming lessons at Foss, “donut Fridays” with Dad, going on family walks and to the park, and being outside with friends.

Your laughter is infectious and your smile is one that could brighten anyone’s day. You so freely remind me and your Dad that you love us and Wally – your family – I hope that stays with you forever. You can’t wait to be a big sister and you like to hug and kiss my belly and say hello to baby brother – already you’re a loving sibling.

In a year that was tough in a lot of ways, you were always the bright spot. I’m so thankful for your energy, love, innocence, curiosity, silliness, and compassion that is beyond your years. God surely has blessed me. Happy birthday, sweets!

Love always,
Your Mama