In our area birthday's aren't typically celebrated with presents and big parties. The kids love to sing "happy birthday" but usually it isn't actually for someones birthday. Rosemelie must have known that turning five was a big deal though because she counted down the days until her birthday for several months. Everyday she would ask if it was February and oh was she excited when I finally answered yes! She told me right from the start that she wanted meat for her birthday and was even more specific in letting me know she wanted chicken. On Friday I found her before school started and decided to start the day off by singing happy birthday to her in the school yard. Right after school she was quick to ask me if I heard her class singing because everyone sang happy birthday to her and they even gave her a card! After school we continued the "party" by playing games, going on the swings and slide, and of course we ate chicken. We also sang happy birthday at least a hundred more times. This sweet and spunky little girl is beyond special to me and so many others. She has a smile that reaches from ear to ear and her laughter is one of the most precious sounds I've ever heard. I am so thankful for this little girl and love that we got to spend her birthday celebrating just how truly special she is!