Emily turns 9!

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Dear Emily~

Happy birthday, pretty girl! You are 9 today. Nine on the ninth! :) It's hard to believe that it was really nine years ago today that you were born. Poppa couldn't have been happier when you decided to grant his wish and make your entrance 8 days early...on his (and Uncle Kevin's) birthday! From the very beginning of your life, you've kept us on our toes. You aspirated amniotic fluid while you were being born and pretty much had "instant pneumonia". We never expected to leave the hospital without our first baby in our arms, but we did. For 8 long days, you stayed in the NICU, with tubes and wires all over your little body and Daddy and I by your side as much as we could be. I lost count of how many times you pulled out your IV or the vein that it was in collapsed. The nurses finally had to insert it into a vein in your head. They wanted me to leave while they put it in so I wouldn't have to see you go through that. I told them to take a hike and stayed right by your side while they did it. You only fussed a little and when it was all over, calmly looked me straight in the eyes. At that moment I knew you were a toughie! You still have that same toughness and determination today.

You are a sociable, fun-loving and talented girl. Daddy and I are so proud of your many accomplishments. You are a tenacious soccer goalie, a budding pianist, a recreational gymnast, a responsible babysitter and a good student.

We know that moving to Colorado hasn't been easy for you. We admire you for trying to keep a positive attitude, making friends, and having the courage to make the best of this change.

Natalie loves you so much. She looks up to you and tries to be just like you. You are a good big sister to her. My favorite times are when the two of you play nicely. I also love when you do your "projects" together. I hope you will always have a special relationship with each other.

Todd and Alex are lucky to have you as their sister. They love you very much too. You are such a big help with both of them. I love when you read to Todd, play blocks with him and help him with the things he needs. He loves your "big hugs", they always make him feel better when he is sad. I also love that you can help me with all of the things Alex needs. What would I do without you to put his coat on him and buckle him in his seat? He loves following you around and being a menace with your things. He always has a smile and a hug for you.

Daddy and I love your spunk, your strong will and your sense of humor. We love your outgoing personality and your good nature. We are thankful that you are dedicated and responsible. Being the oldest isn't always easy and we appreciate you being patient with us as we try to figure out just how to be the best parents we can. We enjoy listening to your experiences, reading your stories and just watching you turn into a beautiful and capable young lady. We are grateful you made the choice to be baptized last year and that you do your very best to choose the right and be a good example to those around you. You make us proud every day.

Emily, we love you very much and we're so glad you are a part of our family. We hope you have a fabulous year. Happy birthday, sweetheart! We love you!

With love~
Mommy