Dear little Miss Mary Alice,

As your father, writing on a very fancy blog, watching you wear a very fancy dress after a very fancy party, I am inclined to write as a Victorian. Therefore, I will do so, forthwith!

I write to you today on the occasion of your fourth birthday. As I’m quite sure you recall, we started our celebration with a family soiree on Sunday of this week.

All the usual prestigious guests were there, as was the latest version of the universally sought-after “Tia’s Chocolate Cake.” Messy faces couldn’t hide gleaming cocoa smiles.

You gazed in wonder at the four towering candles, lit and dancing. The first and second puffs attempting to blow them out fell short. However, you mustered a gale on the third successful try, and were very proud of yourself.

Little Miss Mary Alice, you are a joy to watch grow. Your eyes and hair indicate your approach to life: Frolic. If only more were like you.
We love you. Happy birthday!