5 Years Old

My precious Rio, where have 5 years gone?

In the blink of an eye you are a big girl, constantly reminding you that you are not a baby.

In the past year your independence has grown. Your empathy and compassion have multiplied. Your personality reveals itself more every day.

I love that we can now have intelligent detailed conversations with you and that you know how to make us laugh, on purpose (sometimes your jokes are actually funny).

I appreciate and admire how much you love your brothers and how you are always willing to put them first, never bitter or jealous.

I melt when you tell me that I am your best mommy.

I don't know how we are so blessed as to have you in our lives.

This morning we had a nice breakfast (Daddy is working tonight so made her some special pancakes including a dinosaur head) and now the birthday girl is at preschool with cupcakes in hand. Later we have some family coming to visit and then tonight the kids and I have Rio's favourite dinner (homemade mac and cheese) and cheer on the Canucks. The sun is even shining today - what a great day!

Happy Birthday my love! I can't wait to see what the next 5 years bring!

For a photo compare of Rio from her 4th birthday, check her out here.