Girl’s Life

Happy 5th birthday, sweet girl! Wow, I can’t believe the day you have looked forward to for so long has arrived. Last week you celebrated 5 years — the age in your mind that officially moved you into the “big kids” club. And the age in your mama’s mind that officially moved you farther away from that baby you used to be.

We made the whole big kid status official by getting you your very first bicycle. You hopped on first thing on the morning of your birthday — surprised and delighted, jammies and all – practicing until you were totally sure of yourself, despite your many falls.

This year has been a big one for you. You graduated from your preschool in June, and we have now entered into a new homeschool adventure together. You are really enjoying it, much to my relief. We’re still figuring it out day by day, but so far you have loved finding learning adventures out in the world together. This whole process has reminded me again and again that learning with you and watching you discover new things is absolutely one of my favorite things to do.

Another thing you are loving this year is ballet. You took your first class well over a year ago and really liked the concept of being a ballerina much more than the act of going to ballet class. This summer, however, you played dress-up ballerina almost every day so your dad and I decided it was about time to sign you up for another class and try it again. This time you are totally into it and it’s so fun to watch you concentrate, tongue hanging out of your mouth, in the big full-length mirrors.

This summer was also filled with lots of swimming in our little colorful pool and spending tons of time in our backyard. We ran around, played pretend, rode tricycles and bikes, and tended to our first organic garden. We had fun picking, cooking and eating green beans together and marveling at our huge pumpkin’s progress each day.

Another thing you love to do is play with your little brother. He idolizes his big sis, but you never take that for granted and usually try hard to earn his respect. It’s fun to watch you with him — teaching him new tricks . . .

taking him for rides in the backyard . . .

“reading” to him . . .

and just generally goofing around . . .

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You two are loud and hilarious and frustrating and heart-warming. I hope you stay as close as you are now. It sure is convenient to have such a great friend in your own family.

Your other love in the family is, of course, Sarah dog. While your brother spends his days chasing her around the house, you spend time cuddling her and talking softly in her ears, telling her how much you like having her around. She likes having you around, too. She appreciates your calming presence as much as the rest of us.

You got to be a flower girl this year for the first time, too. You took your responsibilities very seriously. You primped and practiced and did a really great job. And now you’re a pro at weddings, having gone to a few this year. You definitely know your way around the dance floor, for sure.

You would sing and dance all day, if you could. And mostly you do. Perhaps we have an aspiring star on our hands, or maybe just a mini diva. Either way, the world is your stage and you always seem so thankful that your family is such a willing and eager audience.

How can I sum up this tender yet exuberant age? It is in a category all its own. Five is full of energy and life: exhausted at the end of the day, but not wanting to go to bed because there are too many stories to tell and songs to sing and and whirls to twirl. Five is independence: setting the table, making your bed, helping your brother wash his hands. Five is unconditional love: “Mama, I love you to the moon and back. I love you more than ice cream. I love you forever and ever and ever.” Five is still timid, but braver with each new day: meeting new friends wherever you go, deciding the swings are finally OK. Five is personality and then some: dress-up and make-believe and sparkles. Lots and lots of sparkles.

Five, we think you’re pretty darn great.

You make me smile, kiddo. Constantly. You challenge me each day. You make me slow down and open my eyes wide so I don’t miss what matters. To you, it’s family, friendship, love, and laughter. And I think that sounds just right.