The Gentry's: My EJ

Eden Joy is quickly approaching 5 and for some reason I seem to be struggling more with all her milestones than I did with Macy. Registering her for Kindergarten about broke my heart! I can't believe she is big enough for Kindergarten. I tend to worry about her more in situations like that because she is so timid and sensitive. I know new and unknown things can be a challenge for her personality. I'm thankful she will have big sister there looking out for her and I really am excited for her. Just have to get my heart on board!

Eden continues to make strides on catching Macy in height. I really feel like we will just be sharing clothes before too long. She is long and lean, only weighing about 36 pounds. I still love toting her around and she totally allows it! She has always been our lovey and affectionate one. She's also only about a size or half size behind Macy in shoes. Sharing shoes would also be nice!

She still attends preschool on Tuesdays and really seems to be enjoying it, other than nap time :-) She tells me every school morning "I don't want to go to school, Mommy. I don't like naps." But she always has a great time and Mrs. Jenn is a phenomenal teacher. She's made a lot of academic progress this year, even with going only one day a week. And even though she doesn't nap, she stays quiet and gets a good report at the end of the day. I'm excited about the friends she's made this year, and especially excited that one of her best friends will be joining her in Kindergarten next year! Because of Eden's shyness, it's been neat to see her make close friends this year; mainly through school and dance.

She has become more independent in some things recently: making her bed, brushing her teeth, fixing cups of water, getting her own snacks, riding her bike, getting dressed, packing her school or dance bag, locating toys she's misplaced, getting in the car and buckling, and playing games. She's just such a different personality from Macy; much more free-spirited and not as motivated. She gets excited when she learns something new, but she's also content to have you do things for her ;-)

Eden has the sweetest heart. I've mentioned before, she just doesn't get attached to "stuff" like Macy does. She's still a kid and obviously enjoys toys and getting presents, but she doesn't attach herself to things. And she will gladly hand over something she's holding or playing with if she thinks it will make you happy. She is sensitive to the needs of others around her.

She has been wonderful with Kate and very trust-worthy. Kate will walk over to her and hand her a sock that fell off, then sit. Eden will take the sock and put it back on Kate, much to Kate's delight. She plays with Kate and keeps her entertained and content. Very much a little Mommy, she kisses her on the head and holds her hand when they're walking. KK adores her.

Soccer has not really been her forte, but I've been so proud of her for getting out there every week and staying engaged in what's going on. She's even gone after the ball a few times and gotten some good kicks. And one great block! She enjoys giggling and playing with the other girls on her team much more than the athleticism of the game. She did enjoy dance this past year and did a great job at her recital!

At home and during room time, she role plays constantly and has some pretty dramatic conversations with her "friends" ;-) She will also stand in front of the mirror and sing...loudly. Things she would probably never do in front of people, but is a regular occurrence at our house. She still loves changing clothes and putting together outfits. Very much our fashionista, she always notices what I'm wearing and if something is new. The funniest thing is hearing her "discipline" one of her many babies.

Eden brings us so much joy. She is so sweet and loving, always ready to give hugs and kisses. I've had headaches before at night and the next morning at breakfast she will ask, "Is your head better Mommy"? She is thoughtful and considerate. She's also our little pray-er. She will always volunteer to pray. At night, she wants to sing a few songs together, pray together, and have me quiz her on a few letter sounds. Every night. We love you like crazy, Eden Joy!

Back in January, Eden swallowed a penny! We waited and waited for it to pass. She ended up having a scan done and after 8 days we finally spotted it!