Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Happy 6th Birthday Kayla!

Dearest Kayla,

 Here we are yet again, another birthday. You were so excited, counting down the days you had left as a 5 (or 5 and 3/4 as you liked to say) year old but hesitant at the same time. Last night in the tub, you told me that you want to be 6 forever, that you never want to grow up. Oh little one, if you had any idea how we wish the same thing. It's so hard to believe that the teeny little 7 pound bundle that we brought home from the hospital is now preparing for First Grade. I snapped the picture of you in the car a few weeks ago, and it brought a tear to my eye to see that you are all little girl now - there are no traces of the baby that you once were.

 Speaking of school, Kindergarten was this year's biggest adventure and you loved it. Your teacher (Mrs. Hart) was a very special lady and it was wonderful to see you flourish under her guidance. You are now writing clearly, and reading independently. You still tell me that Math is your favorite thing; you love to count, add, subtract and multiply. Next year you and our neighbor Allie will be in the same class with Mrs. Morell, and I know you're going to do great.

 You still love to play outside more than almost anything, and the swimming pool is probably your favorite thing ever. The spring soccer season as a member of the Pink Pandas was a lot of fun. You had your first camp out last month, sleeping in a tent in Pepere and Grammy Sue's back yard. Playing games is very close to your favorite; this year found you learning checkers and chess. Every time I pick you up from Nana's house, you're deep into a game of checkers, or Pigeon or SkipBo. Aunt Paula came home to visit over Memorial Day weekend, and I loved watching you two play chess together. You are so smart, and you are able to reason and think things through in a way that I never imagined that you would be able to at this age. When you can't find a partner to play with (by which I mean we get tired of you beating the daylights out of us), you do an excellent job of beating the iPad at checkers.

 I love what a sweet little snuggle bug you still are. Curling up on the couch with you after a long day is my favorite thing. When I'm upset or stressed out, you always offer hugs; your empathy is simply astounding. We love spending time in the kitchen together - you're an excellent helper!

 I am so looking forward to celebrating you on Friday with a trip to the nail salon and to see the Minion Movie, having a party with our family on Saturday and your friends on Sunday. You're growing up so fast little one, and we couldn't be prouder of the young lady you are becoming.

 Love always,

 Mommy and Daddy