Dear Jada,

We call you Sassy, Dangy, JadaLouie, LouLou, Bear, and Sunshine.

Today is your birthday, and so here is my letter to you.

You are a happy, friendly, sweet, and caring little girl. You are so smart, witty, and funny, and you say the most hilarious things I have ever heard. When you were a little baby, you were so very quiet that we often said we "forgot about Jada!" You even were a quiet little baby -- that is, until you turned 2 years old. Once you turned 2 years old, you talked and talked and talked and talked! In fact, most people think that you are much older than you really are because you talk so well, think so much, and know so much.

At age 4, you are already reading most words, can say all of your days of the week, months of the year, and even most of your addition tables. You know the continents, states, and even rhyming words. Your favorite subject in school is math, and you're very good at math! You enjoy writing your own words and alphabet, and you've been getting much better at writing your stories in your notebook. Your teachers have said that you have excellent behavior, and you often help the class with their chores.

You also love to sing. I am always amazed by the songs you come up with on your own -- Daddy calls it a "freestyle" battle with you. And, sometimes your songs are even better than the grownup's songs! When we are driving in the car, you always ask me to put on the "Haiti Song" or "Baby are you Down" and you sing all of the words and pretend that you are acting the song.

You are a very good sister to MushyMushyGuy and to Jo. Whenever you see Evan, you always ask if you can hug him. Whenever you see Jo, you always run up to her and hug her so hard that she falls over. When we drop off Joli at school, you always make her kiss and hug you - even when she doesn't want to. But, sometimes you are irresistible and she has to hug you anyways.

I'll never understand your obsession with "flat tummy" or "chocolate milk", but for some reason, Daddy and I always give in to you when you ask for them. Your favorite thing to do is to chase birds when I drop you off at Lola's house, and you love wearing your sneakers because you say they "make you go fast."

This past year, you've learned to ride your bike and are trying to keep up with Mia and Joli. You get frustrated, but I'm sure by the time you turn 5, you'll be riding along side them! Even though you are treated like the little one, you get to do some special things. This past year, you went to California by yourself with Lola and Lolo. That was a real treat! When Jo is at school, sometimes you and I have special day. And, when Mommy has to go to the grocery at night, I take you because you help me get all of the shopping done quickly.

I can't believe you are already 4 years old, and at the same time, you've always acted so grown up! Happy birthday, dear Jada. We love you and can't wait to see what you're up to this year!

Love, Mommy, Daddy, Jo and Evan