Thoughts on Eliza at Age 4

Eliza can finally tell everyone she is four years old. Because she is so tall (42 inches and in the 95th percentile for height), most people assume she is four or five. For months, she has delighted in saying, "No! I'm THREE!" She loves being the tallest.

Eliza is strong-willed, determined, intelligent, precocious, and definitely unique. One of my favorite things about Eliza is that she finds joy in so many small things. When we give her a treat or reward, she usually shouts, "Woohoo!" or squeals in delight. She treasures every gift (big or small) and always remembers who sends her cards (which she insists on keeping). 

Oftentimes, I find myself frustrated one minute and laughing the next because Eliza has the ability to soften my heart (even when I am not in the mood for it to be softened!). When she disobeys, she usually finds a way to express her feelings, calm down, and apologize for her misbehavior. I am continually impressed by her development. The past few weeks, she has listened to our explanations regarding sharing, eating, and sleeping. She has made so much progress in these three areas, and I feel incredibly proud of her. 

And, at four, Eliza still loves to imagine and play dress-up. She tells us that using her imagination is her favorite thing to do. How amazing is that?

I love you, Eliza Eden. Having a daughter like you is beyond anything I could have ever imagined.