When we were four, we learned so much more.  -Lydia Ivey

Dear Lydia,

I can not believe that you are four years old.   There are times that I feel like you should be older.  I tend to lump you and Carter together, expecting you to do anything he can do.  You keep up, that’s for sure!  You are so smart and determined…and that’s a wonderful combination!

In one week you will start Pre-K.  You were supposed to go to a preschool program that was just 4 half days a week, but the opportunity became available for all day, all week school and I took it.  You’re ready.  You’re so very ready.  I know you will do well, but I have to admit that there is small part of me that’s sad.  I was looking forward to lazy afternoon naps with you.  We’ll still nap on Sunday’s I’m sure!  You are my cuddle bug, and there are few things more wonderful than naps with you.

As I went through your pictures of the last year, the most drastic change came only a few weeks ago.  You got a haircut.  Gone are those long locks and gorgeous curls.  I was hesitant about cutting your hair because we all loved it.  But I love the new look, and you love it.  I only wish we could still do double french braids.   I miss the double french braids.  And pig tails.  But it’ll be a while before we’re able to do those again.  Why?  Well, by the time you are old enough to read this, I’m sure the story about your hair will be of legendary proportions.  I’ll admit that I did not initially find it amusing, but in retrospect…I can’t NOT laugh.  You and Carter were playing super hero.  You wrapped yourself up in the curtain in your room and he, the greatest hero of all, came to your rescue and yanked the terror-inducing curtain and a huge plug of hair from the center of your head.  You didn’t cry, you laughed.  I know it had to hurt, but the absurdity of the situation obviously struck your funny bone.  I’m giggling as I type, actually.  How in the world was my little Carter strong enough to pull out a clump of your hair???  Oh, well…what’s done is done.  And your haircut fits your personality.  I dare say there’s even a little more sass in your step these days, complements of the new do.

As I write this, I’m listening to you and Carter play.  Such active imaginations!  You love to play house.  You love to be a mommy-to your dolls and to your brothers!  Asa adores you, his “Mi-Mi”.  Carter calls you his best friend.  You are my sunshine, and Daddy’s little girl.  We all love you so much!  And you are so special.

For your birthday you had to choose: birthday party with your friends or horse riding lesson by yourself.  You chose the horse, and I’m so glad.  It was so much fun watching you enjoy that, even if I did step in horse poop with flip flops.

Happy birthday, my little sunshine!

Love,
Mommy