Vanessa is 5

My little girl isn't so little anymore. Quite frankly, it makes me kind of sad. She is five. It seems like such a huge landmark when they turn five. She turned five on March 16. And that day, I wanted to write 3/16/06 on everything that I signed and dated....

Something about them changes that whole year from four to five. They gain Independence, no longer rely on us for everything. They are more curious and adventurous. They talk more and more, in full sentences and carry on conversations with us. They are joining the world of becoming little people. With intelligence and inquisitiveness. With giggles that turn to belly laughs when you tickle them. Begging for you to tickle them. And running away and coming up with their own thoughts on how fun like that should be had. Their minds create more intense pretend play scenes.

She loves dolls more than ever, and tea parties, and cooking, and doing things a little girl her age should be doing.... but tenfold. Because she is five. And it makes me sad that she is growing up.

Happy Birthday Nessa Noodle! My little Nessie. My Nessa.

And because it is so hard to believe she is just a year older... these side by sides speak for themselves. Exactly a year apart, and worlds different. She is growing up. You know when they say that you shouldn't blink, because just like that they will be grown and flying from the nest? They are not kidding.

And her beautiful haircut on the left (her 4 year old picture.) was done by her.... and a scissors. Behind the couch. Oh that child. But look at the long lovely locks she is sporting this year! And the super short bangs... that she cut, all by herself, behind the couch, with a scissors.... Maybe she has just a tad bit of rebellion showing through, or maybe she wants to be a beautician when she gets big :).

We love you Nessie.  - Mom & Dad.