happy birthday malia!

Malia turned FOUR last week! Can you believe I have a four year old? I know, I know. I can't either. 

For Malia's birthday, she got the traditional breakfast in bed. I made sure to get up early so we could surprise her IN bed (since we usually have to send ourselves back to bed to do the whole breakfast thing).  Kina was so excited to walk in with the tray.  She yelled, "Surprise!" and Malia looked very confused.  She looked at me and said, "It's my birthday?!?" After I said yes she says, "Oh! I'm so happy!" and GOBBLED down her food. It was perfect.  Later in the day, she went to school and got a gold crown and balloon and shared treats with her classmates.  And at night, we had her favorite dinner (Spaghetti. I know, aren't we so original?) and had cake and ice cream for dessert.  She had a wonderful birthday and we all had fun celebrating with her. 

What can I say about Malia?  As a baby she was extremely colicky.  My memories of her infancy are full of her crying and me so stressed out trying to soothe her.  She cried non-stop for like, eight months.  That was then (thank GOODNESS) and NOW, she is an absolute doll - a complete joy of a child.  She is happy, bright, energetic, brave, positive and sweet.  She is very social and upbeat - I think she gets it from Wayne - and has no shame in social situations. Malia loves to make things with her hands - everyday I find her little creations in the toy room.  She'll use blocks, baskets, blankets, anything to create her masterpieces (usually a  boat, train, house etc.).  They're all very creative.  Malia also LOVES to read - I remember when she was just one and two I'd randomly find her in different corners of the house with a book, and it's something she still enjoys.  Another thing about Malia - she's kinda a tomboy.  She was a dragon last Halloween when all the other girls were princesses and she prefers her kung-fu outfits to the princess gowns we have for dress-ups.  Her tomboyness kinda matches her personality and spunk.  Malia LOVES. . .like LOVES animals.  We all say she is going to be a vet when she grows up because she loves them so much.  She can't pass a dog on the street without talking to it and petting it.  She's become quite a pro at asking random people if she can "pet your dog".  Yes. She loves animals.  Malia is a peacemaker in our home.  If Wayne and I start arguing, Malia will immediately try to make us "love each other and not fight". If Tali is crying, Malia is the first to help her and try make her happy.  I feel she is wise beyond her years at times and is so sweet and helpful to me as a mom.  I'm so happy/proud/grateful that she's my daughter.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MALIA!

WE LOVE YOU!