Cooper is 4!

Today is our little man's 4th birthday! Can't believe it!  This is the first year we didn't take off work (saving more time for baby girl's arrival), so he got to spend the day with Grandma doing pretty much whatever her wanted to do. Unfortunately, he has a nasty cold and isn't feeling 100%, but it was still a good day. This morning, we surprised him with a donut with icing and sprinkles - he licked off the icing/sprinkles and left the donut untouched - and tonight we had a fun dinner at Friendly's with all of the grandparents. Tomorrow we have some special activities planned if he's feeling up to it.

We've seen some amazing changes over the past year...eating WAY more foods than he used to, talking up a storm, making new friends. Still completely into all things transportation - trains, trucks, cars, planes, etc. Favorite movies are Planes and Monsters, Inc.  He has embraced music more than before, showing more interest in listening as well as singing along. Just recently figured out how to pedal a bike/tricycle (coordination's not really his strong suit). He's learned to be more independent in many ways and we're trying to cultivate that more - getting dressed without much help, hanging up his own coat and putting away shoes, cleaning up after himself, etc. Many times he would prefer to "help" us with a chore/task than play with his toys - and he can be a really good helper. Of course we're constantly challenged to be patient, help him learn to be a good listener, and work through his emotions. It has not been an easy age for us as parents, but we are learning too.

This year will definitely stretch us all with the addition of baby girl any day now. (I'm glad she decided she needs her own birthday, despite the fact it would have made a good story!) Cooper seems to be really excited about having a little sister. Hopefully his "helper" mentality will help with his transition from "only child" to "big brother" status. Exciting times are ahead!