My sweet little Ann turned four years old last week....sigh.  She's growing up way too fast.  We celebrated with a Strawberry Shortcake princess theme (hence the "crown" in the photo below).  I intended to bake her cake but when we went to Sam's for some other things the kids found a "Strawberry Shortcake" themed sheet cake.  It was HUGE but we bought it.  Most of it is in my freezer at the moment and it's become the "gift that keeps on giving". 

We tried to make her day as special as possible.  All of the kids were disappointed to realize that their cousins wouldn't be able to come.  Despite this, we had a good time.  She of course got to choose what we had for dinner.  My little darling chose chicken, green beans and salad - yes, I was shocked too.  So, chicken it was.  We followed it up with some cake and ice cream.

Little Ann (who is quiet petite actually), is such a spirited child.  She is never short on comical things to say.  She has a temper that is also paired with a deep passionate side.  She is so excited about officially starting "homeschool" with us in the fall and keeps asking me if she can "read yet".  We never know what she is going to say and typically it catches us by surprise when she does.  We thought we were finished having kids after her sister, Kate, but I am so so glad we kept going.  She brings a level to the family that we'd surely miss.

Happy Birthday Ann!  I love you!

Note:  Yes, that is me in the picture on the day of her birthday (July 2006).  In hind sight, going without foundation and/or powder that day wasn't such a great choice since the camera flash decided to really "reflect that shine".  So, for those wondering when on earth I would post a more updated photo of my face than the one at the top of this blog....there ya have it :o)