Happy 4th Birthday!

What a fun day! We started off bright and early with Birthday french toast as we ran out the door for school. She took cupcakes for her class and was fused over by all of the teachers. Momma AND Daddy picked her up from school and headed to Buffalo Boyd's for lunch. We've been celebrating for many days, but she knew she still had one more present from us. When we got home a shiny pink Barbie bicycle was waiting! She had a blast riding her new Big Girl Bike (which has a miniature bike for Barbie) even though it was frigid outside. I think she must have gone around the driveway at least 100 times! Fortunately, Daddy was willing to participate in the parade and the "pretend like I'm your neighbor and you don't see me coming until you hear my bell" game. Tonight, Daddy grilled steaks (which is still her favorite meal) and we sang one more round on the last cupcake from school. Tomorrow will be the party at Build-a-Bear, which will surely bring more photos! So as I close out another year with my sweet Amazing Grace, many things have changed, but even more hold true. This year has brought ballet, potty training, power-struggles, bravery, swimming, school, friendships, writing, crafting, cooking, "I can do it" and "I've got it" 's, Barbie Dolls and Disney World. Monumental? Yes. The key take-away? No. The past year has strengthened and solidified her personality. I am actually able to imagine what she'll be like in 5, 10 or 15 years. She has only continued to become more kind, sweet and loving. She is very sensitive and concerned for those around her. . .family, friends or strangers. She is still incredibly verbal. . .I will often laugh out loud in the middle of our conversations. Just last week she told one of her friends that what she said "hurt her feelings and so she was going to be speechless!" I guess this is the appropriate time to mention is still has a flair for the dramatic:) She loves to help and be involved with whatever Mommy and Daddy are doing and is actually getting to the point of "productive" with the duster:) She still eats Mac and cheese and chicken nuggets whenever possible, but has finally taken to fresh fruits and veggies. She dances and sings all day long, now making up her own lyrics. The amazing part is they are often really good:) Sadly for Brey, it is only a matter of time before she demands a Hip Hop or Poms class! Nothing will ever come between this girl and her books. To save Mommy's sanity, we finally put a bookshelf in her bedroom. Her love of animals became apparent at Christmas when most of the gifts were of the "furry nature". Her newest companion is Ginger. . .the Furreal cat. I swear she thinks it's real. . ."just one that Mommy is not "lairgic" to". She spends a lot of time lovin' on Denver and talkin' to Beaux. Fortunately, Dewie (her grandparents Labradoodle) has become one of her favorite pass times. When she stayed with us a few weeks ago, it was not unusual to see her in a princess crown and "dress". . .and yes, I am referring to the dog:) She also still "wags her booty" when she is really excited. . .I guess that is the one and only downfall of having puppy dogs as siblings! We have had such a great year watching this precious child come in to her own. . .she fills each day with joy, excitement and love. My heart wants to explode every time I "check her covers" at night. I could stand there for hours just watching. The old saying is so true. . .it is like watching your heart beat and live outside of your body. I could not love her any more then I do at this very moment. . .and yet tomorrow will come and somehow the impossible will happen. She will do or say something and once again my heart will burst open making room for more. . .more Amazing Grace! Thank you, Lord. Thank you! They are both truly gifts from above!