Love is picture perfect: FOUR.

Dear Brylee Calla,

Four years ago you made me a mommy. It literally seems like yesterday we met for the first time; our eyes connected and souls united, that’s where our story and adventure began. The story and journey of mother and daughter. As the days and years pass, we are constantly learning and evolving as we experience growing pains together. I want you to know that you and your sister are the most treasured blessings in my life.

In these four years, you have grown up to be an amazing little girl. I say little, because you are among the littlest 4 year olds around. Your petite stature doesn’t have anything on your huge vocabulary, imagination, or heart. This past year you have become so much more independent, and have grown up so much. You started preschool in the fall, and you love going twice a week to learn new things, see your teachers, and play with your friends. You also started going to Miss Elaine’s for daycare and although you were a bit reluctant at first (as you were quite fond of Mary), you have adjusted well and love going to her house to play and have made many new friends.

This past year you have grown effortlessly into your “big sister” role. You take your job as ‘big sister’ very seriously. You fondly call Brittyn... Miss Britty Britt. You are always telling everyone what your sister needs or wants (you are her voice), and constantly telling everyone how much you love her and that she is the cutest baby ever! Brittyn loves you so much too. . She lights up when she sees you and you make her giggle like no one else can. She loves playing with you (when you let her!) and she will often just come up behind you and lay her head on your back to give you a hug and snuggle. I overheard you say the other day....I love hugs, Brittyn. (which made my heart melt).

Your personality continues to develop and shine. You are smart, detail oriented, love schedules/routines, being organized, being clean, and are always thinking ahead . You are a quiet observer, perfectionist, and very empathetic; although, sometimes your anxiety and reluctant behavior can hold you back in new situations. It has been fun watching your personality take shape as you grow and become more independent.

Your favorite things to do are: watch cartoons/movies, play with your dolls and animals, pretend, and play with your sister and cousins. Your favorite color is pink, and your favorite foods are pizza, hot dogs, yogurt, milk, cheesy bunny crackers, and anything sweet. You still remain a picky eater, but perhaps your little sister will encourage you to expand your palate!

My baby girl is growing up way too quickly and I am not quite sure how 4 years just zipped by in the blink of an eye, but indeed they have. FOUR is a special age...not quite a “big kid”, but not a toddler anymore. Your independence is growing by the day, and soon I will blink again and realize you are a teenager! But for now, I will live in the moment, preserving a snapshot in time of your giggly laugh, the devious twinkle in your eye, constant jabbering about your favorite stuffed animal friends, bossy demands and negotiating skills, and the daily emotional roller coaster rides which sometimes result in time-outs. As these vivid moments fade over time, I hope the things I remember most are the same things I hope will never change …..your big smile, infectious free spirit, zest for life, and big heart!

Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you! We love you so much....to the moon and back!

Happy 4th birthday Bry Pie!

Love always,

Mama

A look back....