She's turning six!

Our firstborn is turning six today. Not until 8:20 this evening, if you want to be exact. I can't believe it was six years ago today that I became a mommy for the first time. And life hasn't slowed down or been the same ever since!
Larissa is pretty much a typical firstborn. She likes to be the boss, she has her own ideas, can be quite headstrong, yet she likes being helpful. Definitely girly. Pink and purple are her favorite colors, and she can still be found running around the house with a tiara on her head. She's not real crazy about animals, any kind, really. Except for her own dog, Doc. She was the one Nate and I cut our parenting teeth on. And still are. It's amazing how different three little girls can be, coming from the same two parents.
Larissa is very sensitive to how others are feeling. She notices when someone is sad, or out of sorts. She is very affectionate and likes to give hugs and sit close to you. Larissa is very quick to suggest praying if someone is sick or sad. It's a good reminder for us adults, who typically try to immediately "fix" things. Sometimes...most times, we'd probably be further ahead praying about it. It's been fun watching her grow up and mature. One thing I have to get used to is the fact that the girl never forgets. Anything. Seriously. Drives me crazy. Nate and I have to resort to spelling things sometimes, and I know that all too soon, that won't work anymore either!
One amazing quality about this child, is her love to travel. She can sit and ride in a truck forever! And you rarely hear the girl complain, unless she needs to use the bathroom, or is hungry.  Which is awesome, considering we live 36 hours from my family, and make a trip back there at least once a year.
To our birthday girl, we just want to say how much we love you and feel blessed that God saw fit to give us you. I know at times we can butt heads, with both me and you being the oldest in our respective families, but your heart for people and desire to see them happy, your sensitivity to spiritual things is truly inspiring. We hope you have a very special and happy 6th birthday!!!