5

My first born Sofia...you are 5 today. That means 5 years ago today, you made me a mama. Your mama and have blessed mine and Papa's life every day since with your sweet spirit, your laugh and your smile. We named you Sofia after your friend Sofia Y. in Russia and it has suited you perfectly. You may not remember it now, but here are a few things about you that I have noticed lately now that you are a "big kid".

• You called me at work this morning thanking you for the note I left on your placemat on the table. I was so glad to wish you a Happy Birthday and cannot wait to see your face when I susprise you with lunch in just a few hours. Our own special date- just Sofia and Mama. I'm even going to bring balloons!



• You have heard me telling you I love you a few extra times today....it's because I do.



• You have not wandered from wanting a Unicorn Pillow Pet for the last few months-even though we were trying to persuade you in getting a panda one...they were 50% off. But you stood your ground and thanks to a co-worker, you will be getting your wish.



• You are the epitome of "Girl" loving pink and purple, dolls and dresses and "jewels". Don't get me wrong, you do have an athletic side to you (weve seen it especially in soccer) but you are GIRL down to the core.



• You STILL will not allow me to cut your hair (just small trims here and there). You have the softest head known to mankind, but are getting much better about making sure it is brushed thoroughly and love to see it in curls, as you say- "just like you mama".



• Your sister Ella is by far your biggest fan and best friend. You guys are so cute together and you love when Ella calls you "sister" which is 99% of the time.



• Papa is still your favorite person to see walk through the door in the evening and the only one worthy to read "skaskee" at night.



• Your Russian improves every day and you love to learn.



• When I asked your opinion about my earrings the other day you told me they were "rockin".



• You asked when you would be 13 because it is taking "FOREVER" to get here. I just smiled and said to hang on just a little bit longer.



• Questions, questions, questions are what I hear day in and day out. And if I cannot answer them, you wait patiently until I call Grandpa to ask his opinion...



• You love Grandma Pederson so very much and tell me stories every day about what you and Grandma did, how SHE would cook dinner in comparison to me how much she loves your long hair and always ask if we can go and see her. Oh sweets....That's my wish too.

These last 5 years have flown by and I cannot imagine what the years would have been like without you in them to fill with love, laughter, tears, frustration, anxiety and all the other emotions that being a mother brings.

Have a wonderful year as a 5 year old Birthday Girl. We love you.