Happy Birthday, Evy

 Dear Evy,

Today, as we celebrated your fifth birthday 

with our traditional trip to the Build-a-Bear store

I could not help but tell you of the day your were born ...

and the joy you brought to your family.

 You studied the pictures of your sweet welcome on my phone.

At Build-a-Bear you chose your stuffy to fill

and then a cute outfit for her.

 We dressed her

 found a hairband for her

and took pictures, of course. 

 You named your cat, Emma

and after registering her,

we were on our way.

As I reflect on these five years,

I wish that I could run a list of every little moment

that has grown our relationship to what it is today,
a special spot you have filled in our hearts and home by ...

your weekly visits

trips to the park in the stroller

story books

sippy drinks and baby cookies with a show

sugar roll up pancakes

coloring books

board games

blowing bubbles

swinging under the tree

rolling buns

helping with laundry

getting groceries and visiting Oma.

Sweet compliance, with never a complaint.

We've watched you grow in understanding,
and accepting the tough changes that even a toddler faces ...

times when I would have wanted time to stand still.

But, oh, what joy it is to see you grow!

You are sweet, kind and smart ...

and we love you ever you so much!

May God keep and bless you always,
our Everly Elise.

Love, 

Papa and Mimi

♡♡♡