Kaylee McKenna

Well since I'm somewhat behind in birthday posts we'll go for 1/2 birthday posts! Happy 1/2 birthday Kaylee McKenna! You are 4 1/2 years old. I can't even believe it!! You are 1/2 way to Kindergarten. I know that you are more than ready but your mom on the other hand will spend the next several months dragging her feet as much as she can. I still vividly remember the day I found out I was pregnant with you, the day I had you and even those first few months. I can think of an age and picture you at that age. I have enjoyed every minute of you, yes, even the challenging ones. You truly are my mini-me and for some of that I apologize, but for all of it I'm grateful! Here are some of the things I admire about you:

*Your incredible memory. I'm also thankful for this as you help me to remember things I soon forget.

*I love your passion for learning. You continue to amaze me daily with your vocabulary, your new found love of spelling as many things as you can and your ability to begin to read to me.

*Along with the above I love that you enjoy watching medical shows and other educational shows just because you want to know about everything.

*I love that through my recent medical issues you were such a grown-up girl and took care of Ainsley and that when I thanked you for it you rubbed my head and said "No problem, little buddy".

*The expressiveness in your face when you tell me things.

*Your love of infomercials, not the hour long ones, but the 1 minute commercials. I also love that you repeat them to me as an explanation as to why we should buy whatever they are selling.

*I love to hear you walk around singing, at the top of your lungs. Some times the song is familiar and some times it's a Kaylee original.

*I envy your willingness and enjoyment of looking for bugs and not hesitating to pick them up.

*Your willingness to always help others who need it.

*That you play with everyone regardless of who else is, or isn't, playing with them.

*While it's a battle at times I do get a kick out of your thoughtfulness to what you are going to wear.

*I so enjoy watching you continue to grow and change. You have a flare for the dramatic, High-maintenance Barbie, and a sensitive soul. I hope you continue to follow your own drum and your willingness to explore everything from arts, to dance to sports. I know you will find your niche and you will be unstoppable. I could never be prouder of you!!! Thanks for being my first-born!

Lastly, some of my favorite photos:

Kaylee McKenna

Born May 17, 2005
Here we are getting ready to go home.

5 months old, lovin her veggies!

9 Mos. old, love the eyes!

18 mos. old, just hanging out.

This was taken this year in Florida. We were at the zoo on a boat ride. Again with those eyes!

Playing outside this past spring. Love the hat, more proof of being my mini-me.

Princess Kaylee at her 4th Birthday party. Can you guess what the theme was?

The first day of the Montessori school year 2009.