Mary Turns Four

When I walked into her room the morning of the big day, I said, "it's your birthday today!" to which she excitedly replied in almost a whisper, "yeahhhh!" When I wished her a happy birthday she informed me, "I'm BERY big now" and at four, she feels just that - entirely too big.

She went from shy and skeptical of others to much more social and confident during the course of this past year. She was mostly really good during the travels throughout the year, though she is not a fan of cold weather (especially if wind is involved).

She could listen to the soundtrack of Moana every day and sings along with great enthusiasm. She loves books, playing picnic, and putting together puzzles. She is the worst at hide-and-seek, but loves playing regardless. 

When she needs to blow her nose she says, "I have snots" and she is obsessed with asking anyone she meets, "what's your favorite color?" followed by "what's your favorite dinosaur?"

She started school this year and was hesitant and nervous at first, but only a few days later she was happy and comfortably settled, quickly making friends and turning our hearts to mush with her after school running hug.

She has sass and attitude and does not like to be told no.

She is also empathetic and gentle and a lover of all animals, sleeping with no less than half a dozen stuffed animals each night.

She does not like to see Finn hurt, does like to rat on him when he's being naughty, and mimics his antics often.

We still call her our baby, and regardless of her big girl status, she will always be just that.

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