My almost 5 year old

Carlee's arrival..... it was a slow process. Carlee was a week late and a 14 hour labor. This girl is still teaching me patience because of her laid back slow way of doing things.
Picture perfect (You have always loved the camera)

First chocolate bar.... good thing you didn't eat it or you would have been up all night

First bath at home.... not a fan (somethings will never change)

Love those moments of rest

My girl now, in her birthday dress on Valentine's Day

Gotta love good kite flying days

She thought she might have enough to buy her $300 car from Toy's R Us (not quite)

sponge curls or rag curls.... it's something in between (talk about bringing back memories)

5 going on 15

There are no words to express how I feel about this girl, but it's been my tradition since she was born to write to her on her birthday and tell her how much I love her. So here I go.....

Carlee,

You are beautiful sweetheart! The more you grow the more beautiful you become....inside and out. I'll never forget when you asked Jesus into your heart this past year and how ever since then your beauty is that of the Lord's. He is forming your heart and will continue to all the days of your life. He will make you into "a beautiful creation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and you will be His own possession. " You belong to Him and He is the greatest thing in you. He gave you all the those adorable freckles people always compliment, those deep dark brown eyes and long straight hair (that you will not let me cut), that soft and tender heart that you display every time someone asks you for forgiveness, that warm embrace you give to those you love (you hug everyone), that obedient heart that really wants to do the right thing, that ability to make mistakes and learn from them, that heart to give and love those around you no matter how they treat you (this speaks volumes), that fun excitement that comes out in you everyday making each day a blessing to live, your laid back temperament that makes it easy to enjoy the simple things, that encouraging smile and affirming words you speak to all those around you to show your support and kindness, that very intelligent brain that is always curious to know more (you make home-schooling fun and easy), your super funny personality that makes me and your daddy roll on the floor laughing, the love and grace you show to your brother even when he hits you time and time again, the precious voice you have that sings songs of praise and worship to our God (I know you will be always be a worship leader inspiring those around you to connect their hearts to Gods), then there is the ability God gave you to dance unhindered with grace and beauty through ballet (or river dance these days...haha), and there is the heart for prayer God has established in you and will continue to grow. Carlee, you are a wonderful creation!! God's got His hand on you. I look forward to this new year and being 5. It sounds so big! I love you and thank God for blessing me with such a lovable daughter. You, just like your daddy, are easy to love. Happy 5th Birthday sweet girl!

Love,

Your mommy

P.S. I am posting this 45 minutes before your birthday because I don't want to forget. lol