Happy Birthday, Emma!

At the risk of sounding like an old woman, I can remember when you were born and can't believe how quickly time has passed.

It feels like yesterday that you were just a fidgeting lump of a baby, red and wrinkly and crying. It has been an honor watching you grow the past two years, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for you.

However, as you grow, I wish that you will...

1. Stay Fearless

I love that you aren't scared of anything. I hope you always dive into life head first, living it to the fullest embracing the consequences as they come.

2. Practice Caution

In remaining fearless, I hope you use caution and good judgment. Be smart when you should, and do not take unnecessary risks. Remember life is meant to be lived, but it is not meant to be wasted. I pray you always know the line between fearless and reckless and practice discretion.

3. Stay Strong

Admittedly, it is entertaining to watch you wrestle your older, much stronger brother. I hope you never lose your strength, in any of its forms. Life will test you, but I hope you always look at the challenges like a wrestling match with your brother, believing that there is no problem you cannot overcome.

4. Stay Soft

I love the way you look at life with wonder and amazement in your eyes. The world is cold and harsh, and it will test you. No matter what journey life takes you on, I hope you remain soft. Remain trusting and forgiving, and always know that there are good people in the world, no matter what.

5. Keep Laughing

The sound of your giggle lights up a room. Keep laughing, even when you want to cry. Know that there are bad days, not bad lives. Laugh at your failures as well as your successes, and learn from them all.

6. Stay Confident

This world will try to tear you down, making you feel unworthy, but I pray that you remain invincible, knowing that you are always enough. Don't change yourself for anyone or anything. Instead, make the world change for you.

7. Always Know You Are SO Loved

No matter how old you get, you will always be the blonde, curly-headed, giggling little girl I have fallen in love with. Live life knowing that no matter what you do, where you go, or how old you get, you will always be the blonde, curly-headed, giggling little girl who stole my heart. Please know that I will always be here for you, as will your whole family. Growing up, there may be times you hate us all, but we will ALWAYS love you. Never ever forget that.

Today, you are still young, and I am still watching you grow, fearful of what the cruel world will try to do to you. I wish I could put you in a bubble, shielding you from the hurt that will come. While I cannot protect you from everything, I vow to always help you through life.

Today, you run and play and I will continue to pray.

So, once again, happy birthday.

Love Always,

Aunt Shy