Cate is FIVE

And to wrap up our birthday season, Cate-a-roo turns 5. Unfortunately she was sick on her birthday, so she stayed home with me. She was bummed to miss out on the decorating of her birthday crown at school, so I made her one at home. It's a little better one than the one I made last year that make her look like the pope. :)

Trever made sure to make birthday crepes for Cate, which was the perfect way to start the day. And the silver lining of staying home, was that we got to spend the morning together, just the two of us. It's rare that I get to have one-on-one time with the girls, so it was extra special to be with her on her birthday. We spent the morning running errands and looking for her Halloween costume. We eventually landed at Toy's R' Us and took our time perusing the isles and exploring the toys. 

Later that evening, we ate mac n' cheese (also her fav), opened presents and had cake. Apparently I was supposed to have the #5 candle in her cake but she made a quick recovery, and was okay blowing out five individual candles. She received some great gifts and did a good job sharing with her sisters. She was especially excited to use her new soccer goals on our new lawn (drum roll please).

On the Saturday following her birthday, we gathered at a local park to celebrate with her school friends and their families. Cate's classmates are so much fun and we have really enjoyed getting to know their families as well.

The theme of the party started as camping but evolved into outdoors/explorers. The kids decorated their own binoculars, made fireflies out of pipe cleaners and clothes pins, and participated in a nature treasure hunt. They also played in the park and Cate logged in plenty of time on the monkey bars. It was a really fun evening and I think everyone had a great time.

sign by Jane

This past year has been a good one for Cate. She continues to be independent, playful, and determined. If there is something she wants to accomplish, no one can stand in her way. She has mastered the monkey bars and it continues to be one of her favorite activities. I am constantly trying to find the balance between letting her explore and climb to great heights, while making sure that she is safe.

This fall she started T-K at our local elementary school and she is LOVING it! She has a great teacher and has made some really good friends. She is also loving PE, music and her weekly visits to the library. Cate has started to read and has been interested in writing and word recognition. She wants a little bit of help, but is quite determined to read and write all-by-herself. It makes me so happy to see her thrive! It has also been fun to watch her play soccer. About half way through her season, she made her first goal, and never looked back.

Cate, we love you and are so grateful to have you in our family. Your sisters love you too and they always have so much fun when you are together. We are proud of all that you have accomplished and love that you NEVER give up! We look forward to watching you soar this year!