Four years old

The long-anticipated birthday arrived at last. Clara's party had all the essential elements: friends, cake, and a pinata which appeared to be made of reinforced concrete. After none of the kids could break it, Leia's dad took a whack--and broke the stick.

Birthday girl (sporting tiara) with beloved friend Katie, demonstrates her counting skills.

The unbreakable pinata... (we finally cheated and tore it apart with our hands).