Rosebud was crying softly tonight in bed when I went to tuck her in. Although she is very much looking forward to her birthday tomorrow, it seems that she really enjoyed being four years old and isn't entirely ready to let go. I understand. I, too, have delighted in her four year old adventures.

Rosebud has begun stand up for herself, protect her boundaries, and she has become a lively and substantive playmate for her sisters and brother. She dances with elegance & grace, sounds out three letter words and builds roly-poly houses. She loves and mothers her younger sister tenderly and longs for another baby in the house. She is learning to play an instrument. She cries when Daddy isn't home and when Mommy steps out. She delights in outings and gatherings, but finds her peace in quiet time. She hogs the bed and kicks in her sleep. She is stubborn, curious, social and compassionate. And, she is just a few hours away from being Five.

Darling Rosebud, Four has been a great year. You savored it and lived it passionately and now we can, hand-in-hand, open our arms to embrace Five. Happy Birthday and God bless you!