The Girls - November 2013 (Harlie turns 5!)

Harlie Baby,

You turned 5 this month. FIVE! One, two, three, four, FIVE! It doesn't matter how much protesting I do, you just keep growing and I find myself wanting to hoard all of your "Mama's" and cuddles, as if one day they will vanish without warning. But for now you give them freely and often. Your sissy would say you give your cuddles a little too freely and not so gently. But her face lights up when you come into the room and you are her faithful playmate. It makes me so proud to see what a wonderful big sister you are and how you shower her with love and compassion. Ashlynne is so lucky to have you.

This year you decided you wanted a Sleeping Beauty birthday party at the Sacramento Children's museum. You had a wonderful time with your friends and cousins and it was especially sweet to see you and Emelia attached at the hip. It makes me happy that you two have remained so close. You were even able to spend the whole day with her later in the week to celebrate her birthday and came home with a big smile on your face and Twilight Sparkle My Little Pony from Build a Bear.

We MOVED this month, into the house you "picked" because it had stairs. :-) You also picked out your own room and were very happy about Disney princess-ing it as fast as you could. Auntie Autumn helped out with a new princess bedroom set and alarm clock. However, you were a little upset when you learned that none of the closet doors had mirrors and it's difficult to see yourself when you play dress up. This is just one example of how you can be a little difficult to please with your very specific demands. And everything better be your idea or you're usually not interested. Sometimes it's a struggle for control around here, for sure!

You are still loving to draw and paint and create. You love to make cards for people, help Mama in the kicthen and dress up your stuffed animals. You love the song Radioactive and are always singing at the top of your lungs. Life is never dull with you in it, Sweets. I love you more and more each day. Happy Happy Birthday Harlie --I love being your Mama.

Now for a few fun facts about Ashlynne's 10th month:

• Ashlynne was baptized by Pastor Frank at St. John's Lutheran on November 3rd. It was a wonderful day with family .
• She weighs 19 1/2 pounds and is the squeeziest!
• Ashlynne has her own room now and is still sleeping through the night!
• Clapping is a new skill Ashlynne loves to practice. If she's pleased with herself or excited about something, she will often clap and flash a big smile! "Yay" and "Clap" will also get her going.