Happy 16th Birthday, Emma!

Olivia and Emma at the Currituck Lighthouse, April 2012

We are away from our birthday girl today. She is on a mission in Areciba, Puerto Rico with members from her church youth group. While I am sad to miss this special day with her, I'm very proud and excited for her also. She is certainly growing up, making wise and thoughtful decisions about her life, caring for others, all while keeping a healthy amount of sass!

Much love to you, Emma Hawkins! Can't wait for you to return to us so we can hear of your adventures, holy moments, and to celebrate your 16th birthday in your presence!

Happy 15th Birthday, Emma!

Olivia and Emma

Wow! It is hard to believe that a full year has already passed since I posted this. Emma's life is much as one would expect a 15 year old's to be. She's been practicing driving off road with her dad and doing quite well, loves hanging out with her friends, clothes shopping, participating in church youth events and was confirmed on Pentecost Sunday this year. Some things, gratefully haven't changed. She still hangs with her little sister, Olivia, and her grandparents, has had the same best friends for years, dances and is wonderful with younger children. She is a blessing.

Happy birthday, lovely Emma! Here's to another wonderful year.

Happy Birthday, Emma!

Emma is now fourteen and becoming quite a lovely young woman.  This Saturday she'll be off on a mission trip with the youth group at church, soon followed by a week of dance intensive and then begins her freshman year of high school (homeschooled, of course).  I realize the life changes will come more quickly now, but I'm not apprehensive.  She is fun loving, responsible and has her own sense of style and of herself.  I have so much for which to be thankful and optimistic.  She is truly a blessing. 

Happy birthday, dear Emma.

Happy 13th, Emma

Today, my daughter Emma turns 13. She is a very responsible, funny, lovely and energetic young lady.
Here she is hanging out in the dressing room during The Sleeping Beauty rehearsals.