Happy 4th Birthday

To my youngest daughter on her fourth birthday,

I do not even know where to begin. Happy 4th birthday! It amazes me that you are four. You are no longer a baby or a toddler. You are a kid. A real kid. A four year old girl with opinions, love, and a smile that never quits.

You are probably one of the happiest children I know. I do not say that with bias, I say it with some fact. You are always smiling. (Yes, you have tantrums, but not often and they are short lived - thank the lord.) You are happy. You find joy in every single thing you see and do.

When you see the moon, or visit Disney, face time with family, riding in an airplane, going to a museum, or running errands...you love it all. You smile and laugh at every turn. I envy your joy. It is pure. It is genuine. It is truly inspiring. I am so lucky I get to see this smile and hear your laughter daily.

Having you as a daughter has taught me (us) to take risks. We never thought we would be so lucky to have you. We never thought we would be parents twice, but we took a second leap of faith and so you came to be. Four years ago, you came into this world and my amazing daughter, this world is better with you in it.

You have taught us everything works out, whatever "it" is - it will happen, and patience. Slow and steady wins the race. You have always been on your time table. When you are ready, you let us know.

It is a privilege to watch you grow. I am amazed at your perseverance. When things get tough, you work harder. You have never met a challenge you shied away from.  You take each day as it comes and gain knowledge from what is in front of you. Whether the day is mundane or adventurous, you learn and yes, you do it with a smile.

Our dinner conversations now have your little voice telling us about your day, your favorite part of the day, and if anything made you sad or mad. I am so happy to hear that voice (even during tantrums) because it took you so long to find it.

You are funny, caring, sweet, a good friend, and although a tattle tale sometimes - a terrific little sister. You love with a huge heart and are willing to share that love with anyone or anything. You love to play outside and this summer's heat has nothing on your new bike riding ability. You love to be read to, to bake, to play dress-up, and mostly you love playing with your sister. It warms my heart to hear and see you two playing - you are two peas in a pod and I thank G-d every single day for bringing you to us. You completed our family when I wasn't even looking.

In your four years of life you have overcome only obstacles you know, as these things come so easily to other children. You want to do better, you want to achieve those milestones, and nothing has ever or will ever stand in your way. Your overall change in this past year is nothing short of phenomenal. My face glows with pride.

You are determined and that determination will take you where ever it is you want to go. This world and our family will see great things from you in this upcoming year and for years to come. Your sunshine brightens everyone's day and life.

I love you from the bottom of my heart and thank you for being who you are - I would never change a thing.

Happy fourth birthday to my little firecracker.