Four!!!!

Dear Kate,

How on earth you can already be four years old is beyond my comprehension. I cannot believe it! You are so smart, baby girl. You are on the verge of reading, are doing some simple addition, writing your name, and are so ready to go to school. Daddy and I have mixed feelings about you starting school next Fall, as you will no doubt be the youngest in your grade. However, it is impossible to imagine holding you back until you are six, since you are so ready this year!

You are still very much a dancer and performer. You pretend, pretend, pretend, all day long. When I ask you what you want to be when you grow up, it changes depending on the day. But mostly you answer, "A dancer AND a mommy." You have a best friend now, and love having girl time. Your social network has broadened and you have also made a couple of good friends at dance class. Everyone we meet when we are out and about, you deem as your friend. You are a dear, sweet girl.

This year you took a full nine months of dance and loved every minute of it. There was a big recital in June and you did GREAT! You didn't even hestitate when they moved you up into the front row b/c the little girl who was there ran off the stage crying. My big girl! You have been taking swimming lessons all summer and are starting to feel more comfortable in the water. You are more comfortable getting your face wet and have begun floating on your back and belly.

You are very much into princesses, singing, dress up, and all things GIRL. You love playing with baby dolls, people, and doll houses. You are also pedaling your big girl bike this summer and are VERY PROUD of yourself for that big accomplishment. Your fave colors are pink and purple and you ask Mommy almost every day if they are my fave colors too. ;)

Daddy and I are so proud of the big/little girl you have become. You are kind and thoughtful, although have no problems speaking your mind when you are in a familiar situation. You love having a little brother and are such a good role model for him. You have already taught him so much! I am amazed at all he has picked up from you! You completely amaze me at how brave you are! You want to ride "big kid" rides when we are at carnivals, despite not being quite tall enough to do so yet. On our recent trip to Holiday World, you even went on a big water slide with Daddy and a roller coaster with Mommy. (Even though Mommy was about to back out at the last minute, even though it was a "kid" coaster.)

You amaze us every day with all that you are learning and thinking about. You are such a smart and beautiful soul. We are so thankful God blessed us with you.

All my love,

Mommy