Mary Cate, age 4

I'm actually pretty proud that we raised this child past age 3. Just kidding, sort of. Mary Cate has turned a corner and seems very grownup lately. Just this morning, she woke up, got out of bed, and walked downstairs by herself. When she saw us, she remarked, "Oh, hi Mom. Hi Dad." That might not seem like a big deal, but until recently, Mary waking up involved a lot of screaming. I guess she had to get it out of her system early. Or she was just getting her vocal cords warmed up for the day.

But really, four is such a fantastic age. Mary is fun, funny, curious, and helpful. She knows what she wants and she works hard to keep up with her siblings, and now, her classmates. It's been amazing to watch her start school this year so happy and confident. In her words, with "almost ZERO crying." 

I can't imagine our lives without this spunky girl! We love her to pieces and can't wait to see what this year holds. It's time for the birthday interview!

How do you feel about being four?  

I feel super big, like I'm five.

What makes you most excited about being four?

Going to Papa John's house and meeting Papa Mike!

What kinds of new things can four-year-olds do?

Help mom do dishes, count families of birdies, play basketball on the highest one.

Who are your best friends?

Let me think about this. Like Robynne, Allison, Leah, and Alexa. Otto! Lani and Corbin. Luke maybe, and maybe Elliott.

Who are your favorite people to play with?
Alexa, Eddie, DJ, Mom.

What kinds of things are you good at?

Like doing crafts and not getting the glue all over me. Not crying.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
Teacher. A doctor. How about when somebody gets hurt I'll be a doctor, and then I'll be a teacher.

Why do you want to be a teacher and a doctor?
Because I learned how to. I watched my teacher and I play doctor.

What’s your favorite song?   

Doc songs!

What's your favorite food?
Mac and cheese!

Favorite drink [this question was her idea.]

Juice! Juice.

Favorite movie?
Frozen! Frozen 2 and Frozen 1. Both.

Favorite book?   

Let me think about this one, Mom. The Frozen book where you can look for Frozen things!

Favorite color?   
Blue. You already knowed that.

Favorite place to be?

Impression 5!

What are your favorite things to do?   
Build with blocks! Watch shows like Doc!

What is your favorite present that you opened for your birthday?
My Doc McStuffins watch!

Why do you yell so loud? [This one was also her idea.]

Because I want Mommy and she doesn't come unless I yell that loud.

Is there anything else you want us to know about you?   
That I find a bunch of fall leaves.