Feisty and Five
Safe in Papa's arms |
The fact that you are already five surprises me. I can't believe how my little bird flies. I think one of the signs of daughters and sons growing up is when moms and dads can't take much credit anymore for the positive qualities others notice in them. If I had to choose one word to describe you at this stage of our life, it's emerging. Like a baby chick pecking her way out of the shell. Like a shoot unfolding.
those eyes! |
Here are few of the things I've heard others say about you in the last year:
1. You're kind to others
2. You're funny!
3. You're an artist
4. You're creative
5. You have a gentle, sensitive spirit
6. You are strong-willed and independent
7. You are brave and determined
8. You are shy with your peers
9. You like quality time with the people you love
10. You're exceptional
11. You're feisty!
When I add up this list, it does paint a pretty good picture of you at five. Your kindness and gentleness make you a wonderful middle sister: patient with your older sister and nurturing with your younger brother. You love your family. When asked who you wanted at your birthday party, your answer this year was the same as last: Grammy and Papa; Grandma and Grandpa. When you learned that Grandma and Grandpa wouldn't be able to be here on your special day, you were so disappointed. "I thought they were coming!" you protested.
sibling love |
While you are shy in a group of peers and this year of preschool has been challenging for you in some ways, you are not afraid to step up and try new things--like jumping into the deep end of the pool for the first time. You kept telling your teachers you could do it, and they kept saying wait. And then one day you just got into the line for jumping on your own and did it. You're a girl who makes up her mind and gets the job done.
Lake Michigan |
I would also add that your quick wit is one of my greatest joys. You make me laugh all the time. I can't write down your little jokes and quick come backs fast enough. Some day I'll give you the record I've been keeping. I hope it makes you smile, too. I think you often surprise yourself with your quick comebacks. You've thought them up and said them out loud before even you realize how funny they are.
You love playing by yourself as much as you love playing with others. When you get home from school, your favorite afternoon is lunch with mom and Kaleb, snuggle time on the couch with books and mom, and then an hour or two of playing on your own before Emelyn comes home from school. I love listening to your play. You create the most imaginative worlds and situations with all your "stuffies" and dolls and miniature animals. Since Sunday you've been mothering your new American Girl Doll, laying out her clothes at night for the morning, and dressing her when you get dressed, taking her with us in the car everywhere we go, and feeding and tucking her intobed at night. It's a big job that you take very seriously.
Your "please don't watch me" face |
You always have had your own sense of style! |
I like you a whole lot Audyn Grace DeWeerd. If you weren't already my daughter, I'd ask you to be my friend.
"I sure wish I had an Audyn like you," I sometimes whisper in your ear.
"Mommy! You do!" you remind me every time.
What amazing good fortune. What a beautiful blessing. My Audyn-girl, my Little Pip. How I love you. Happy Birthday.