More Moments: Five Years Old

On Sunday, November 2, Mikaela turned 5. What an adventure it's been so far.

She talks and sings up a storm. She is fairly fluent in Spanish (and English, of course) and dapples in a little sign language to boot.

She loves to do "homework" where she practices writing her letters in addition to other preschool activities (identifying shapes, colors, etc). She does this both in Spanish and English. She also enjoys coloring.

She loves watching movies and t.v. Friday nights are generally movie nights, which she loves. "The Three Caballeros" and "The Incredibles" are her two favorites. She also enjoys "Signing Time" and "VeggieTales."

Her favorite color is usually pink, but occasionally it changes to something else. I believe right now it's yellow.

She wears 5T. Some dresses she can do 6T because she is so tall. Her shoe size is 11. I will get growth stats at her appointment later this week.

She is still such a picky eater. We saw a play therapist over the summer because there had been some weight loss and meal time became tearful at best. So... now we do "Taste Adventures". Her palate is still EXTREMELY limited of what she will actually try, but at least meal time isn't such a a bear anymore. I'm hopeful that when she is in school and sees what all the other kids eat, that will help. For now, we supplement with pediasure, vitamins, and hidden veggies in a few foods we can get them in.

She is taking ballet and loves it.

She's starting to read. She's learning to sound out words in both English and Spanish and loves to look through books. We have recently set up a "reading corner" in her room to help expand her love for books.

Her personality is bubbly and she seemingly knows no stranger. She will talk to just about anyone and loves to meet new people. I pray I continue to nurture that gift in her because it is NOT me at all. I see so much potential in that for her. It excites me to see how God will use her because of it.

She's still timid at trying new things, especially food, but that equates to other risks such as riding a bike, etc. She also continues to have a deep aversion to loud noise, but it has improved so we know eventually she'll probably grow out of it.

We had her party at the house on Sunday afternoon. Kids played in the backyard on the swing set and various other yard games before lining up to strike a pinata and dive for candy. Afterwards, it was time for cake and presents. Enjoy the pictures below.