On Four

Today you're 4. We're going out on a real live lobster boat to hunt for the little treasures of the sea. They're going to take us out to see seals. Should be a smashing good time.

We've had a whirlwind summer again. We've moved, we spent a week at MeMe's, a week at Tybee, and now, Maine. You've seen most of your family by now and have carved out a happy niche for yourself in every place we've been. You've adjusted beautifully and have made me so proud!

I think it helps that Daddy takes you fishing at bedtime every night.

I've made you a princess cake. Pink, of course. I sent daddy out for the makings and he called from the store because he couldn't remember if Sleeping Beauty and Princess Aurora were the same person. You would have scoffed if he'd asked you! Anyway, I thought you should know that the message on the box nearly caused daddy to implode. And me, too, really, if I hadn't seen blogging potential in it.

Last night, before bed, I told you that when you wake up, you're going to be 4! You could barely contain your excitement. Turning 4 must feel like the best thing in the world when you've been three and a half for such a (your words) lonnnnnnng time.

Your dad and I were talking about all the things we'll miss when you're even bigger than 4---the things like already instead of olly and because instead of why. Even the changes we see this year as opposed to last---could you be a better travel companion? Definitely not. You are smart and independent, curious and questioning. You are always up for an adventure and you're funny, too. I've heard you tell your favorite joke 25 times.

Why did the chicken cross the road? To get a cookie!

You think it is hilarious.

Right now you're really into dragons and horses. Your team of horses come with us everywhere and take up residence in the best of all of the places we visit. On our hike the other day, the rocky shoreline---so beautiful---belonged to your horses. Your dragons, all girls of course, and pink and purple, lived across the water on the other side of the inlet. They are nice dragons, you said. You love to tell stories. Sometimes people pass us on the trail and give me a knowing wink like they've been here before.

Your stories may or may not be truthful, depending on your mood. I tell you my Super Power is knowing whether or not you are telling the truth. I think you believe me.

Nature is our theme these days and you're an animal (and book) lover, thank goodness.

Despite the fact that you are growing like crazy and are learning new things at lightening speed, you're still small enough for me to snuggle you at my leisure. You still want "to hold me" and love me and, well, I'm not ready to let that go anytime soon! Stay small and grow, sugar. Is that too much to ask?

I'm so excited about the year ahead. We have so many new things to look forward to! I love you, Sweetpea.