Happy 4th Birthday Aniela...

It was Aniela's birthday today and she has been anticipating the big day for about a month now. Last night before bed she couldn't sleep, calling for me a few times and asking if it was morning time yet. She eventually fell asleep and in the morning was excited to get the day going and for her friends to arrive. Her first surprise of the day was the gift from us. Her very first pet, a goldfish. She has been talking for quite some time about wanting a pet goldfish so Charlie and I thought... what the heck! She was very exited as she came down the stairs and was almost in shock that it was real. She named the fish Parley and so far so good. No life lessons yet on why Parley is floating at the top of the tank and not swimming!

For her party this year Aniela decided she wanted a Hawaiian theme. I loved the idea, especially since our local dollar store has everything you can think of for such a theme.

It was a full house with 9 of her friends as well as parents and siblings. We had cake, a fun craft where the kids decorated their own sun visors and of course a pinata! After everyone left Aniela said, "It was the best birthday party ever mom!"...and in the end that's all that matters!

It was also a special day for Aniela because our good friends and former neighbors, Jackie and Al, flew all the way up from Calgary to celebrate her special day. It was so nice catching up with them and truly felt like they never left. Aniela beamed when she saw them and loved all the extra special attention.

Happy Birthday baby girl! We love you so much and hope that 4 is a fun year full of love, laughter, lots of smiles, growth, learning, and exploration. You amaze us each and everyday with how bright you are, your caring nature, and mature disposition. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that your only 4! And no matter how big you get remember that you'll always be our baby girl.