A letter to my daughter on her Birthday

Dearest Katie, Kate, Katester, Katie-Boo, Sister,

One year ago, I sat in this same chair thinking of you and smiling. It is hard to believe yet another year has gone by, and that today...you are Four years old.

This past year seemed especially different. A big leap perhaps from the one before. You were incredibly brave when you were introduced to the Emergency room for the first time. You exuded confidence when adding preschool to your routine, showed great creative talent when left alone at nap time, and your personality is beginning to shine in so many ways.

At just four years old, I am in awe of you. You are surely the eldest. You walk cautiously through life, looking for answers, and protect your brother so that he doesn't do as he is told not to. Still, you remember to laugh. You have an amazingly contagious laugh that you generously offer when being chased by your brother or tickled by your Daddy. The kind of laughter that brings tears to my eyes. I want to bottle it up and keep it forever.

I still enjoy our weekend mornings and stormy nights when you find your way into our bed and snuggle up close. Where we whisper in the dark, and giggle in our girl talk.

You are sweet, sincere, loving, brave, and wise. You are Beautiful.

Happy 4th Birthday, Kate.

We love you. Always.