Happy Birthday, my sweet Sophie!!!

Five! Holy cow. How in the world did those five years fly by so quickly? It's hard for me to imagine that you were only two when we moved in here. You seemed so grown up then. And now, you're FIVE!

You asked me a couple of days ago how old Suzi would be when you have babies. I told you she'd probably be 28. :)

Sophie holding Suzi the day we brought her home from the hospital.

I do hope you have babies some day. You'll be an excellent mommy. One of your favorite games this year has been role playing, where you are a mommy too and you work side by side with me all day.

Sophie meeting her cousin Lilly for the first time.

I love those days! I can always use a hand, of course, but more than that, you're always amazed at how much work is involved in being a mommy and then you're so appreciative. I also love to watch you interact with Suzi or your baby dolls when you're playing Mommy. You are so sweet, gentle and loving. I pray that's how you see me. Most of the time at least.

L-R: Lilly, Suzi, Sophie (April 17, 2010)

But sweetie, you know how to press my buttons like no one else. Daddy says that's because we're just alike. I happen to take that as a compliment.

I can only hope that others see me as self-assured, confident, and as happy as you are. But I'm pretty sure daddy means we can be hard-headed, willful, and spastic. That's okay, we know we're awesome.
Your daddy and I really do think you are awesome. Maybe we shouldn't say that out loud, but we do. Those big green eyes and huge smile can melt us in an instant. To be so lovely and so smart all at once - you are a lucky little girl! We are lucky too, to have you.

You are so loved by all of us - your immediate and your extended family. No matter how often you scowl at us, we still love you! I guess if I were as awesome as you, and was continually disappointed by the lack of compliance with my orders, I might get a little grouchy too.

But you are very sweet and cheerful lots of the time too. I love seeing the world through your eyes. The excitement and the endless possibilities that even a trip to the grocery store offers to you is inspiring. YOU are inspiring. You bring endless joy, delight, brightness to my world. You are my soulshine, and I am so very grateful to call you my daughter.

Happy Birthday, my dear sweet Sophie. I love you very, very, VERY much, and I hope that today is just as awesome as a super cool chick like you deserves!!!