5 years

Dear Cara Beara,
You are now 5 years old and honestly I am not sure where the time went. Each and every day I look at you and still feel that deep, deep overwhelming love that I had the day we met. I actually think I love you more as I watch you grow into a little girl.

You have been accepted into kindergarten and will start in the Fall. They scored you based on some standardize testing and observation. I was, and am, so proud that you scored above average with regards to your readiness. I know you are smart and now others do too.

I am really struggling with allowing you to do more 5 year old things. I know I cannot shelter you from hurt and pain, those are just part of life. But I really want to. I hate to see the look of sadness and disappointment in your eyes. It kills me.

I am also fearful of this world we live in. Things seem much more complicated and dangerous. You are so sweet and innocent. I do not want the outside world to destroy the beauty that is you. So I cling tightly, probably too tightly, and I know that is not always good.

One day when you are older you may question your crazy Mom, but please know my intentions always start in a place of love.

Now, to who you are at 5. You are successfully growing out of all your clothes and shoes. And when we do but you clothes you want tutus and skirts. Anything that twirls. Your favorite pair of shoes light up and Aunt Roni bought them for you.

On your actual birthday we got your hair cut in the most adorable bob. I love it and you look super cute. You love wearing headbands and doing your own hair.

Drawing, cutting, coloring and other crafty things are top of your list. You also love to sing and dance. You will both sing along with the radio and make up your own songs.

The majority of the time you are sweet and loving with Ramsey. You are still sisters so I do expect some fighting and you all do that too. I love to see you take her hand and help her along. You also are extremely involved in the OT we do with her. Our little therapist.

Being your Mommy is one of the best things I have ever done. I am not perfect but I try really hard to ensure you are happy and healthy. I look forward to watching you grow but I am also sad to let my little girl go.

I love you with all my heart.

Happy 5th birthday!

Love Mommy

A day of celebrating

Today my sweet, sweet Cara has a milestone birthday. She turns 5! I took the day off work so I could spend it with her.

First, we had donuts at Dunkin Donuts where she got 2 chocolate glazed donuts and chocolate milk. Instead of eating the donuts she just picked and licked all the chocolate from the top.

Then we went to get a hair cut. We got a super cute bob and I love it.

Once her hair was cut we headed for the movie theater to see Monsters, Inc in 3D. I wasn't sure she'd make it through the whole movie, and she didn't, but it was still a nice time. We were the only people in the movie theater and got to cuddle up during the show.

Now we are at home for a little lunch and rest before we head out to get her pictures taken. For her birthday dinner Cara has picked Chuck E Cheese.

Kindergarten

Today we took Miss C to her Kindergarten screening at St. Al's. I did my best to try and prepare her for what to expect but she is definitely her Momma's girl. When we got there she became very shy and clingy.

I get it. I totally get it, because I feel that way in new settings. I definitely take a bit to warm up to people and it is difficult for me to be more outgoing at times when I don't know people. I am trying to help her get past that because I know it's both ok to be that way and have worked hard to move out of my comfort zone when I have to. But I am not sure how to do that with a soon to be 5 year old.

I knew that once she got going, and with Mia's help, she would be fine. And she was. I didn't cry. Thought I felt like it. She seems so little and so grown up all at the same time.

I am not sure I am ready for all that comes with have a school age little girl. But here it is.

Kindergarten. What?

We completed the application for Miss C to attend kindergarten in the Fall. I cannot believe my sweet little girl will be going to a big school. The thought causes me anxiety, sadness and pride all wrapped up together.

I know I cannot shelter her from every thing in like that may cause her pain. I want to, but it is not realistic or actually helpful for her. I will protect where I can and comfort when I cannot.

I am sure it will be much harder on me than it will be on her. More difficult than anything I have ever done before. We'll get through it I know but it won't always be easy.

Her kindergarten screening is next month. She will play and interact with other potential kindergarten students. I will be a wreck I am sure.

Wish us luck.

Movies they love

C and R love watching movies. The draw back is that we often watch the same movie over and over again. It is hilarious to hear them quote the movies, sing the songs or laugh at the funny parts.

They are not really in to the Disney princess movies. There are parts they find too scary. What they do love are the Pixar movies like Cars and Toy Story.

Here are some other movies they like: Madagascar, Despicable Me, Elf, Rio, Yogi Bear, Monsters Inc, etc.

Holiday Show

The girls had their holiday show last night for school. C did two dances and two songs. She was great. So focused on the dance teacher. I loved it. Very proud of her.

R wanted no part of being on the stage so she just hung out with me. Too loud and chaotic for her.

Baptism

The girls got Baptized yesterday at St. Al's. This is what they looked like before it ever started. It was during nap time which proved to be a challenge, but overall it went well.