Elise turns 5 today!

Happy Birthday Elise Louise!  Every year you turn another year older is a year where I can't believe I was lucky enough to have you as my daughter... and also a year where I can't believe I am old enough to have a daughter your age.

Elise, there is so much in you that is good, but I will try to touch on a few of my favorite things about you...

• you are a wonderful big sister...everyone tells me so
• you take wonderful care of your siblings, like a little mama
• you are incredible intelligent
• we love your long blond locks
• we love how excited you get about holidays.... it makes it so much better for everyone around you as they all get as excited as you do

• you hardly ever make it to bed after 8, but no matter what time you go to sleep, you always wake up around 5
• you like to poor everyone their own drink
• you have a very creative imagination and enjoy making up scenarios while you play
• you love to be told that you are beautiful... it always feels good to be told the truth
• you are the cruise director around here and are always curious as to what we are doing next

• you love to play with friends... you are a social child even though you are often shy at first
• your memory is amazing... I can never get one over on you and all adults learn quickly never to promise something without coming through on time
• you love all things girlie

• you are bossy... must be a first child thing
• you love swimming and will surely be doing laps by the end of this summer
• you always want everyone to participate and are good at getting others to join in
• you usually do what mom asks of you

• you love to have books read to you.. we are now reading you chapter books and you love it
• all of your grandparents adore you... why wouldn't they?
• you enjoy baking and cooking
• you love doing all sorts of arts and crafts projects

• you have a sweet tooth... not your fault...genetic
• you love being outside
• you have a green thumb and are eager to get outside to check on our fruits and vegetables as soon as the sun is out
• you love surprises as long as you don't know about them beforehand, then it's torture for you
• you love to dress up and pretend you're a princess

• you are very sweet and still love being held
• you are learning how to match colors well, but still aren't quite perfect at matching patterns (you pick out some crazy clothes sometimes)
• you are a crank when you are tired
• you're incredibly excited about kindergarten

• you love anything new... for a day
• you want to be a princess all the time if you could
• you have a cute smile that lights up all around you and also makes your dimple show

Ellie, we love you so very much.  You made your mom and dad parents and helped us to discover the meaning of true love.  Thank you for being the person you are.  It's easy to see that you have amazing things ahead of you in your life and we couldn't be happier that we get to be around to see it all unfold for you.  We hope you never lose your sweet and friendly spirit.  We love you!!  Happy Birthday darling!