Times Square Toys R' Us Ferris Wheel

Geoffrey the giraffe sent Katie a special birthday card.  She took that birthday card to our local Toys 'R Us and given a birthday crown, balloon and two passes to ride the Ferris Wheel.  Katie was very excited about getting to ride the ferris wheel at Toys R Us for her birthday. When she  got off she did, however, tell the ride operator the ride was "kind of boring."

Nothing better than hanging out with (on) Daddy!

Central Park

One last time at our diner

Our diner is going through a remodel.  Quite honestly since Elizabeth's birth we have not frequented our diner as much as we used to.  They are currently closed for an indefinite period of time as they go through a complete remodel.  The weekend before it closed we had to visit one last time.  

First day of Kindergarten

We interrupt these birthday pictures for a very important message.  Katie started Kindergarten!!!  There were no tears shed (at least by Katie) and when I picked her up Katie's response was that "THIS WAS THE BEST FIRST DAY EVER!!!"   I think that means it was successful.  After all the worry, countless school tours, millions of prayers and conversation, I think we are on our way to a great school year.  Today and tomorrow are half days but Monday she will be going for the full day.  Katie cannot wait for Monday because she wants to eat lunch at school.  Let's hope this love of school lasts for another 20 years!

Katie's Birthday

Katie's Cake

As requested, Katie and I made a strawberry cake for her birthday.  The cake had a strawberry filling and strawberry cream cheese.  It may not have been one of my prettiest cakes (you try making a cake in 90 degree weather, a small kitchen with a 5-year-old sous chef) but it tasted yummy.  That is all that counts, right?

Katie's Special Birthday Call

Katie is not a fan of dogs. For the most part she is terrified of them.  However, there is a show that she absolutely loves called Paw Patrol.  Her favorite pup is Rubble (and he is my favorite too!). He is a cute little English Bull Dog (my dream dog).  Katie had a special call on her birthday.  The Paw Patrol called to wish her a special Happy Birthday.  She must have listened to that message a dozen times and each time she squealed with happiness!

Katie turned 5!

This week I have been rather emotional.  Just over a week ago (August 21st) Katie turned 5.  This week she will start kindergarten.  I am sure I will reflect more on it later but needless to say, I am blown away how fast these past five years have gone.  I am terrified for how fast the next 5 will go.  My little baby is growing up into such an amazing little girl.  She is beautiful both inside and out.  Daily, I sit back amazed at the intelligence that comes out of her mouth and the love that pours out of her heart.  We have been blessed.