Ah, to be Four

Let's all pretend this post was put up on my blog on July 17, m'kay?  Then I won't feel like such a horrible mom for being so far behind on my children's birthdays.

Our little Ailee turned 4 in July.  She has been so excited to turn four since about a month after she turned 3.  

This year we had some fun visitors show up just in time to celebrate with us!!  Kade's brother and his family drove all the way from California to spend some time with us Texas Folk.

A picture with Cousins:

And how can we resist silliness??

Singing "Happy Birthday" for the special girl:

Ailee has to be the most undemanding child ever to roam the face of the Earth.  This year, her birthday wish list consisted of: 1. A big pink ball and 2. Princess Bandaids.  

 

$5 at Target later, we decided we could afford to purchase a few more presents for her.

This next one was Maryn's gift to Ailee--

which made for this "awkward hug" picture--

 Maryn's not a touchy-feely sort of girl, but Ailee is.  Sometimes this difference makes uncomfortable moments for Maryn.

And a fun pink/princessy/sparkly gift from some fun cousins!

I think she scored!

I wanted to get some 4 year old pictures of Ailee, so a good month after her birthday, I finally got her dressed up and took her into the backyard for a few shots.

I just love those pretty brown eyes!

 I don't know why, but this picture makes her look so grown up.

And we had to get a silly one!

I'm so glad Ailee is part of our family.  She is a sweet addition and I'm so grateful Heavenly Father decided to bless us with such a special person.  She is our little bug, full of hugs and giggles.  She loves to take care of all of her stuffed animals, especially when they are sad or sick.  Ailee has a strong sense of compassion and desire to be happy.