I think if I had to choose one word to describe you, it would be bright. Of course you have the regular 5 year-old fits and tantrums, but in general you light up the room with your constant joy. I know this, because while brother and sister are spending hours each day working outside on their mud wall or bamboo fort, you are quietly enjoying the time inside with me. "Mama, I am an inside girl," you say. And though you are strong and brave and athletic, you prefer quiet indoor activities. I don't blame you as your sweet blood seems to attract all the mosquitos in the entire town, and your sensitive lungs seem to be allergic to every other blooming thing around. At least the latter of the two ailments I hope you will outgrow. But you've grown wise about the bugs - wearing your long-sleeves in the heat of Summer as a protection.
I've always felt like 5 was such a turning point - growing from preschool to school-aged. I marvel at how much changes between 4 and 5, and how much more independent you have grown. A few months ago we listened to The Hobbit on a long road trip together, and when the story was over you found our illustrated copy of the book and carried it around for a week - narrating all the parts of the story that corresponded with one of the pictures in the book. It was the first time that you really got into the story and connected it with an actual book on our shelf. For your birthday I bought you a beautifully illustrated copy of Winnie-the Pooh, since it's another of our favorites to listen to on the road.
You have also become much more engaged during our school reading times, and offer your own lovely narrations of the stories read aloud. This is one of the great joys of schooling at home - being a witness to the magical and mysterious connections that take place in the early years of learning. There is so much wonder and awe, and you are so unapologetic as you take it all in.
We have been hosting a Sunday night small group at our house every other week, and last week Papa was in charge of the children's lesson and play time. After everyone had left and you children were tucked away in the bed, Papa came to me and said, "Wifey, this is the first time that I've seen little Raindrop really play soccer. And she was good. I thought to myself that she had raw, natural talent and instinct when it came to attacking the goal." I don't know what will come of that, as we've never played on any teams, but for now it's something fun to keep our eyes open to as we play with the goals in our yard!
You are also a lover of beauty, and often the first to recognize or point out the beauty around us. When we are preparing to share a meal with guests, you can't wait to choose a tablecloth, set the table, and pick a bouquet of flowers. You pay such attention to detail in these matters, and I truly appreciate your tender care for others in this regard. It is indeed a unique way that the Father has fashioned you in His image. We pray that it will be something that continues to pour out of you towards others, and not something that you hope to store up for yourself.
We love you dearly, and can't wait to see what this next year holds for you, especially as you surrender your role as youngest sibling, and take on the responsibility of helping us to cherish your little brother.
I love you more, than you ever will know. From the top of your head, way down to your toes!
