Birthday Girl

Abigail's 5th birthday celebration began back here with just our little family and a few presents. This weekend we had our family party (pictures to come soon) and it was a blast! But I really wanted to take Abigail out for her own little 5 year old photo shoot.



And I'm so glad I did!



We had a blast with the five balloons!



Until...

All five popped all at once when they got too close to the barn

I immediately ran to hold her because it was so loud. I was sure she was going to cry from either the noise or that her balloons were too quickly gone.

But she turned to me and said, "that's okay, I can still take more pictures." And she flashed me this pose.



And that was it. She never mentioned them again. She just ran ahead to the gardens and started exploring.



She found more joy in the gardens then she did in those shiny pink balloons that I just had to get.





Both of my girls teach me over and over to just enjoy life. That there is beauty all around us and sometimes less is more





Abigail, I'm so excited about what will unfold for you this year. I love that you're still oh so small but you're growing each day. I'd keep you "just five" forever if I could. Sigh, but as you say to me, "mommy, I have to grow up." I'll let you sweetheart. Please just always stay sweet, loving, silly, and happy. Then I know I'll be okay.



No matter how much you grow, you'll always be my baby. I'm so proud of you, and I love you with all my heart.