Riis is 4!

Well, Riis turned four last week, the age that I generally think of as the age of reason. (Though that's based on Cole's track record, which isn't always an accurate predictor of what Riis is going to do. And by "always," I mean "never.")

She was insistent on a party this year, so we threw her a little one at a local art studio. Her chosen theme? "A piggie party." (That's what happens when you steer them away from princesses -- total randomness.)

It was pouring outside on the day of the party, which made it doubly cozy and retreat-like in the studio, with people shaking off their umbrellas under the bobbing mylar balloons and sheets of rain pounding on the windows.

For her part, Riis was completely lovely. I have yet to be at a kid's party where the birthday boy or girl didn't burst into tears at some point -- the excitement usually turns them into birthday zombies. But no. She shared with her friends, said thank you for her presents, and even bear-hugged me "for the party" at the end of the day.

But she did later tell me that she whispered, "It's my birthday party" into each and every one of her friend's ears during pizza time.

That's my girl.