FIVE!

After months of countdown, Abi's 5th birthday finally arrived. Apparently this is a big one as far as kids birthdays go. For weeks leading up to the big day, she talked non-stop about her birthday and her party. Unbeknownst to me, she extended invitations to her entire preschool class and even some of the kids she met in the daycare at the YMCA. Needless to say, we had to cut down the guest list since we had a limited number that could attend the gymnastics class. In addition to talking about her party, we also had multiple conversations (often at great length) about what it means to turn 5 years old. For Abi, it's simple - being 5 means being able to go to Kindergarten and more importantly, taking the school bus.

For me, 5 represents so much more. This year, more than any other, I am struggling with the realization that my sweet baby has turned into a little girl. Perhaps this is life's way of reminding me to live in the moment and truly enjoy and appreciate each and every day. In what seems like a blink of an eye, Abi has become an independent, smart, friendly and inquisitive little girl. Five years ago, I could not have imagined how much she would change our world.

At 5, Abi loves to color and sing to the princess songs and nursery rhymes on her iPod. She is always willing to try anything at least once. Her favorite meal is orange chicken and her favorite dessert is anything chocolate. She hates eggs, getting shots and having her hair combed. She enjoys school, likes playing with her friends and making her little brother laugh. She is a great big sister and a wonderful daughter. Josh and I could not be prouder of our sweet little angel.

On Abi's birthday, she decided that she wanted to go to the zoo so we spent the day with the animals.

Arizona Grandma, Abi and Brady

Trying to stand like flamingos

One of Abi's favorite things about going to the zoo is reading all the information/facts about the animals.

In all my visits to the zoo, I don't think I have ever seen the lions awake and active.

After the zoo and some quiet time, we opened presents and enjoyed some orange chicken for dinner.

The Rapunzel wig and tower was a big hit!

We ended the night with the season premiere of "Dancing with the Stars".

Finally, a big thank you to Arizona Grandma who flew into town to celebrate Abi's 5th birthday. Thanks Mom!