Harper

Today you turned six years old! SIX!

I blinked and you aren't a baby anymore.

Not even a toddler.

You love dinosaurs and know them all by name.

You love cheetahs because they are "super fast."

You believe in Big Foot even when others tell you he isn't real, and you insist that he's nice.

You love pizza, Mac and cheese, grilled cheese, French fries, and chocolate.

You LOVE to dance - especially in front of your mirror in your room when you think nobody is watching!

You love to swim, watch spy ninjas, and right now you love any song from the Grease movie soundtrack only because your cousin Randi Rae did a dance to them at recital.

You are so stinking smart and have the funniest sense of humor!

You are tender hearted and LOVE any and all animals - even frogs as long as they don't touch you!

Do you know what is the most amazing thing about your right now?

You are your brother's biggest advocate, cheerleader, protector, and friend.

You tell every kid you meet that your brother has autism.

You'll say, "he can't talk good but he still Ikes to play!"

You drive him crazy in public saying, "Nolan hold my hand. Stay right here. Don't touch that!"

"Mama I can help him buckle."

"Daddy Nolan needs help."

And my personal favorite, "Hey guys Nolan said a new word!!!!"

Nolan tells you to "run" with him and here you go! He wants your iPad at bedtime and you don't think twice about handing it over to him. You are so selfless and caring to your brother without us even teaching you to be.

Because of autism you are a special kind of sibling. You are so patient, caring, kind, and you can tune out a tantrum like a pro. Having a brother with autism is all you know and there is no doubt God created you especially for Nolan.

I can't wait to see the woman you grow up to be.

And at the same time I don't want you to grow up another minute.

We love you so much baby girl and hope you have the best day ever!

Love, Daddy and Mama