we’ve been counting down the sleeps till today. she went to bed last night with the giggles, and made sure i’d say “surprise! happy birthday!” as soon as she woke up (i did). theo got mad he didn’t have any presents, but still helped her to open them. i asked her what she wanted for breakfast, she said: cereal. we’ve kept it simple this year, with presents at 7am and brownies for breakfast (after our cereal). i’ve worried that i haven’t made her birthday special, or exciting. but i forgot how kids can make anything magical. the build up alone is thrilling enough.

i just wanted her to feel loved this morning, when she woke up. i wanted her to know that today we are especially grateful for her life, in our family. i know that that is essentially proven over years and the day to day normalities that make up those years, but today, we celebrate with cake and balloons.

we love you, evelyn! you are a joy to your family. i love your imagination, your curiosity, seeing you as a big sister, your energy, your love for people, your will and determination. and your hair. you have got great hair.

happy birthday, pookie!