4 years old!

It is hard to believe our big, little girl is four years old today!  It is such a joy to see her learn and grow every day.  Her biggest accomplishment this month is really, truly starting to do some beginner reading.  Her favorite book is Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss because she can read almost the entire thing by herself (and not just recite it from memory).  She is starting to recognize some sight words and can sound out some basic words.  We are so excited to see the love she has always had for books move forward to the reading stage!

Another "growing up" issue that has come up this month is privacy in her own room--particularly in reference to Lincoln.  As Lincoln has become more mobile, Emily's "safe" area has shrunk significantly.  I feel like she should have some space of her own that is somewhat protected from Lincoln's meddling.  Her room is the obvious choice, but with Lincoln able to easily climb the stairs, his curiosity at a heightened state and so many interesting things in her room for him to explore, it's kind of hard to manage sometimes.  She has begun closing her door and declaring that Lincoln has to stay out so he doesn't mess anything up.  I can sympathize with her, but that means it's also very difficult to do anything upstairs while Lincoln is awake.  So it's kind of a back and forth deal.  I try to protect her space as much as possible, but sometimes Lincoln is just going to get loose or he's going to have to be in there for a short period while I have to do something like help her pick out or modify her clothes for the day.

Emily also went through a Mommy-only/anti-Daddy stage this month.  Thankfully, I think we've finally made it to the other side.  She was more cuddly (read: clingy) this month than I think she has ever been in her life.  I love her and all, but when you just can't get away and have to practically peel off an almost-four-year-old it can get, well, old.

Another funny little phase Emily went through recently was constantly saying, "Mommy, I have an important question."  And then silence.  Most of the time she never did come up with a question.  The rest of the time it was more of a statement relating to her concern about Lincoln opening her birthday presents. :o)

The last tidbit has do with princesses, of course.  As I have mentioned before, Emily recognizes the Disney princesses as "princesses" but has no idea about their names or stories.  However, this month she has convinced herself that Belle from Beauty and the Beast is named "Emily" because she has brown hair and brown eyes just like Emily does. :o)