Annika's Zooey Fifth Birthday

My baby turned five!  Despite the fact that our celebrations were low key, Annika's birthdays are always special to me.  Her home delivery was certainly one of the most incredible of my life, although admittedly not quite as unexpected as initially portrayed.

Back to the real point: party time!  At preschool Annika got to wear a special crown and share her birthday treat.  I happen to know because I was there.  For three weeks I was lucky enough to sub in her class.  Her teacher, Miss Celsea, and classmates are fantastic.

Later that evening we threw together an impromptu zoo party.

This wild animal got to follow the string to her big surprise upstairs.

Ta da!  Check out this amazing kitchen.  Our across-the-street neighbor hoped it might find a new home in Annika's bedroom.  But of course!

Grandma Susie and Aunt Brianna joined us for the treasure hunt.  I can't remember what happened, but it must have been mighty funny!

Here's Rubes giving Talia's ukulele a go.

A zoo party necessitates monkey cupcakes.

At five years of age, this zebra must be full-grown.

I like the bear and butterfly, but where did Grandpa Charles and Talia go?

As you can tell, our little animal got showered with presents.

Annika unabashedly called up Grandma Susie and Grandpa Charles to beg for a guinea pig toy, so as you can imagine, this stuffed guinea pig Quackers was a favorite.  She also loved the donut pajamas from Aunt Brianna.


That evening, she put on those jammies and made sure that both Quackers and the Niffler had a snack before bed.


Back to the gift craziness, Annika was also excited about her long-awaited dolphin bath toy.

Plus, Aunt Callie preserved the animal theme with "The Felt Taxidermist." ;)

In the end, it was NomiAnn and Papa Kay who really nailed the party theme with their gift of an annual zoo pass.  Yippee!

Thanks to all who helped our little gal feel so special on her special day.  As sad as it is to see her grow up, it's also okay since she gets to be more and more fun to hang around.  When she heads off to kindergarten next year, I will certainly miss my little sidekick with her constant questions about what does and does not exist in the "real world."  I will miss her imaginative play and that high-pitched voice begging to pet every dog we pass.  When Annie was tiny, I would often hand her off as "feel-good baby" whose snuggles could brighten a gloomy day.  Even at five, this role has stayed the same.  She brings smiles not only to our family, but to anyone willing to take a moment to listen.  Just last week I had to chuckle as we were riding the chairlift at Brighton together.  She insisted on shouting down to every skier beneath us, "Good job!  You're doing great!!!"

Annika, the world needs more cheerleaders like you.  Just know that as you encourage those around you, we are all here beside you to send back the love you give.