My Madeline

My Madeline turned 5 yesterday.

I really and truly have no idea how this happened. I remember 1-3 very well. And then we had Tucker. And then it's all a blur and somehow here we are 5 years later. The thought of another 5 going by this fast is unbearable to me.

Man it has been a good 5 years. Not that we haven't had our problems. But the amazing thing that is happening now is that Madeline is ME. So we understand each other. Sometimes we argue because we are so much alike but if I take a moment to remember what it was like to be in that little tiny 5 year old body with that same giant sensitive heart then we get along famously.

I love my girl so so much. She is so creative and smart. So observant. She points out things that I miss that are mind blowing. She is the best artist. And fun. And funny. Most of the time she is very precise and particular but when she lets her hair down she is one silly girl. I love the way she dances. I love her silly deep voices. I love how much she loves her brother. And I love that she loves to help me.

Tonight she asked for a job while I made dinner. I didn't have one for her but in a few minutes Tucker asked for an apple while I was in the middle of dinner so she got one out, washed it, dried it, and cut it for him. Awesome. She is also a great cook. And nearly perfect at cracking eggs.

I love that she plays sweetly with her dolls. I love how she takes care of her babies.

I love that she says "sprites" instead of stings. I love that she says "amen't I" instead of aren't I. And if you say "yes you am" to make everything agree incorrectly she corrects you- "no mommy, it's yes you ARE." Like -DUH!

Happy birthday to my favorite girl in the world. Loving you is like getting to love the whole world as an open-hearted 5 year old all over again. Thank you for sharing all of your joy.