Riley's 4th Birthday

This year my sweet first born turned 4 years old. I have no clue how that is possible. I have been told on repeat to enjoy my time with the kids, as the time goes by fast, and it seems like I barely blinked and 4 years have gone by.

This year we celebrate Riley's birthday at the MAC. Some of her closest school friends and neighborhood friends came to share some snacks and cupcakes with her, followed by playing on the indoor playscape and swimming at the pool.

She asked for a "mermaid" themed party

4th year veteran parents with our 4-year-old

At her four-year wellness, all stats show that she is growing on track. Her check-up included a hearing and an eye sight exam, both of which she passed with flying colors. She got 3 shots, and to my pleasant surprise, no tears followed them. She is really growing up.

Height: 40.5in @ 66%tile
Weight: 35lbs @ 50%tile

There is something so special about my Riley. She is thoughtful, inquisitive, caring and intelligent way beyond her 4 years. She has such a strong sense of loyalty and love for her family, near and far. Although she still remains my more introverted child, she is continually coming out of her shell, which makes me so happy. It brings joy to my heart when others can experience the Riley that I know and love.

She giggles at just about everything. She sometimes instigates conflict with her brother, but that is not at all an indication of her growing love for him-- she will randomly tell me how much she loves Connor and enjoys her role as big sister. Her current interests include singing, dancing, swimming, Disney princesses. She is still the great eater she's always been, her favorite foods including shrimp, chicken wings, rice, brussels sprouts, cherry tomatoes and guavas (from YY's house). She loves to paint, she is picking up phonics and writing.

To say I am proud of this young lady is a complete understatement. I wish more than anything I had words to describe all the feelings that churn in my heart when I think of the love I have for my daughter. She is the best gift from God, and although parenting has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, it has been by far the most rewarding. Being a mom has changed me in ways I never imagined possible, and that gift, that blessing, that honor, that privilege is something I could have never experienced had it not been for Riley.

Happy birthday, my sweet Riley.