14 Things

Emily at Easter 2007

Emily just turned 14 years old. I am not sure I am ready for that, but she insists on doing it anyway. That is so like her! I thought I would commemorate her birthday by listing 14 amazing things about Emily. Thanks to Heather and Megan and their dad for some assistance compiling the list.

1. She made dinner while I was taking a nap the other day. After being sick for several days, it was nice to wake up and have dinner on the table. I can't remember when I loved her more!

2. Emily is silly. Just look at that picture. She is very silly. I'm sure she gets it from her Dad. Moms are never silly.

3. She has a captivating smile. Her eyes light up and her whole face takes on a radiance that takes my breath away.

4. She loves school. What a blessing to us both that she loves school and her teachers.

5. Emily is a big tease. Those of you who know her dad and/or one of her two grandfathers can confirm that she comes by it quite naturally. She loves to joke around with everyone.

6. Emily is a social butterfly. She loves being around people. She gets along with adults as well as kids her own age. She isn't afraid to meet strangers.

7. She loves to read. Again, she comes by that very naturally. Our entire family loves to read: grandparents, great-grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, etc. Emily, her sisters, and her cousins all read the same books and then discuss them afterwards. It is like having a family book club!

8. She is good inside and reflects that goodness towards others. She is sometimes impatient with her sisters, but at other times she is really sweet to them. We are working on having the sweet moments more often, but I can tell she is trying.

9. Emily loves the gospel. She wants to go to church and never argues about it. She wants to make good choices, attend seminary this year, and one day go to the temple.

10. Emily loves to snuggle. She gives hugs to those around her and helps to make them feel better.

11. Emily is confident. She can do anything she sets her mind to do.

12. She is adventurous. She is willing to try things her sisters won't. This enthusiasm for life helps her experience the wonders of our world.

13. Emily is a sincere friend. She is supportive and encouraging to her friends. I have never heard her speak negatively of her friends, even during a period of disagreement. That is a rare quality.

14. Emily has an infectious laugh. She is sometimes like me and forgets to enjoy the spice in life; however, when she is truly enjoying herself she is so much fun to be with.