Five

I should have known. From the moment you sprang feet-first into this world, you've been going, going, going... ready for anything.

And I've just been trying to keep up.

As a baby, when you were upset... hoo boy, we knew it. But when you smiled? You lit up the room like a flash of lightning.

You have always been the brave one. Then...

...and now.

The second a camera came out you'd chirp, "cheeeeeese!"  We have countless of photos of you with that smooshed up, hilarious grin.

See?

Apples have always been one of your favorite snacks.

And chocolate.

And, okay, anything sweet.

We just don't talk about green beans anymore.

You swirl and twirl full-tilt...

... until you can't go anymore.

Those big green eyes don't miss a thing. And you can't wait to share everything you've discovered. Lately, your favorite phrase is "Mommy, guess what?" Followed by "and, mommy, guess what?" Repeat until mommy forgets where she's driving.

At the end of most days, when I'm tucking you into bed, you declare, "This was the best day ever!" And it's true. Because in your wonderful world, each day is better than the last. And with you around, it will only get better from here.

Happy birthday to my favorite little girl in the world. Just keep doing what you do and the rest of us will just keep trying to keep up.