When Reia was a little over 2 and I was newly pregnant with Reese we had a fabulous snow that kept everyone home. As we walked over to my friend Holly's house, it was naturally very cold. I was trying to get there as soon as possible and looked behind to see Reia lagging a bit.

"Reia honey, come on a little faster."
"But Mommy, I still wittle."

And indeed she was. I felt bad and picked her up so we could get to our destination sooner. I look back at that brief conversation and wish I could freeze her sweet little two year old self when it was just her and me during the day. It has gone by all too quickly.

Today she turned five. She is so independent. She can make her own lunch if need be, dress herself, work the Tivo and computer, and is becoming a very good little reader. I can't believe how much she has grown. Because she was born on Christmas eve I always think about how Mary felt on Jesus' birthday every year. A year older, a year closer to making the ultimate sacrifice for me...and Reia.

It makes me thank God that I have had the joy of being her mother for the past five years, and thankful that God doesn't let us in on what is ahead. That I have to trust Him to be her father and care for her in every way I can think of and many I can't.

So, Happy Birthday sweet girl. May God bless you and keep you His.