Week Twenty-Two

The big event from this week is that Zaya had her 4th birthday! I can not even believe that Zaya is already four. She has such a sweet, special spirit. Below, is a letter to her on her 4th birthday.

Dear Zaya,

You are my sweet, spunky, always happy, little girl. Like with you is such a joy. You rarely complain, are always up for anything, and you LOVE to help out around the house. I love that you love to be near me, even if it means helping make dinner or folding laundry. I have to admit, in the beginning of the school year, I was worried to have you home without Hurley. This year has been such a blessing for me, however. I feel like we have developed a strong bond; I can't imagine not spending my days with you.

At four, you have the strongest imagination. You love to play by yourself and you can easily create an afternoon of fun out of toys and simple materials around the house. Often, during my piano lessons, you choose to play instead of watch tv. I hear you creating a store of a picnic, or a party and it makes my heart want to burst.

Your favorite tv show is "Peppa the Pig". Your second choice would probably be "Paw Patrol." Your favorite activities are playing with friends and gymnastics (you are always on your head). You also like roller skating, bike riding, and baseball. You love to help me cook, and you are always thrilled to play with your big sister.

Your best friend is Jack. You and Jack could spend all day, every day together and not get sick of each other. I feel like you two are "kindred spirits;" you like to call him your "boyfriend." You also love to play with Nev, Kate and Amelia, and Sienna. You also love your big neighbor friend, Jenna. You are definitely a social little girl. You crave spending time with friends.

Your favorite foods are red bell peppers, tomatoes, pizza, and peanut butter and nutella sandwiches. You always want cereal for breakfast. You are a healthy eater, but you never want to eat much when dinner time comes around.

Zaya, I can already tell that you are going to be something great someday. You are very bright and so loving. I am so proud to call you my daughter and I can't wait to savor another year at home with you!

Love, Mom

We had a family party for Zaya on her actual birthday. She wanted a homemade chocolate cake. We invited the Nymans over to enjoy cake with us. On Friday, she had her friend party. It was really low key. We had 6 friends over and they played outside. I fed them lunch and we had Minnie Mouse cupcakes and opened presents.

Today, as we were on a family walk, I said to Zaya, "Brooklen is going to start hockey in a few months." She said, "Duh!" haha

Later, I said, "Hurry, Brooklen is going to beat us home." She said, "oh dear!" What a funny girl!!!! 

On another note, today was Stake Conference.  Our ward choir had to sing. I was nervous to lead the music in front of everyone. We sang, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." We had performed it before and it is a beautiful arrangement. Of course, my ward is so talented and the choir sounded amazing. I was so proud to lead them.