four

My dear, sweet E,

You are four years old today. Just yesterday I was pregnant with you and now you are four. It's been a dizzying four years, and it's amazing to see how much you have grown and changed.

The first year, you went from needy, crying newborn to an energetic toddler. You learned many skills...you rolled, then sat, then crawled and then walked. You learned to communicate, first by crying and then smiling, babbling, and signing...and by your first birthday even said a word or two (I think...I wasn't blogging back then so we have no record. Sorry about that.)

Your second year, the words really started to come out. The experts talked about a language explosion...and sure enough around 19 months you started talking and have never looked back. Seriously. You talk *all* the time. I've even heard you talking in your sleep when I come in to check on you at night.

In your third year you became the big sister. You (sometimes begrudgingly) learned to share...especially, the time and attention and spotlight that you once had all to yourself. You became more independent, learning to entertain yourself while we were putting A down for a nap or changing a diaper, and then (finally) you were potty-trained.

In your fourth year, you became a big girl. You enjoy going to school and all the things that come with it, like friends and learning. You are well liked among your friends and play elaborate games of house in which you declare "I am the mommy." You are a wonderful big sister...you are A's biggest cheerleader, her protector, her teacher and, most of all, her friend. You are incredibly affectionate. Today, during your naptime when I was asleep on your bed and you were playing quietly in your room, you woke me up several times just to give me a kiss and tell me that you loved me. You are developing a sense of humor, learning knock-knock jokes and funny songs, and you have an infectious laugh that never fails to make me smile.

This year you have learned all about The Princesses. Long gone are the days of Dora (for you at least...A is just getting started) and all hail the doe-eyed Disney gals. At least once a day, you ask me if you are my princess and I always tell you that you are.

So happy birthday, Princess. I love you and am so proud of you.