Nine

Our beautiful, amazing baby girl is nine today.  I think that I say the same thing every year, but I just can't believe how quickly time flies.  Over the last year, Emily has grown in so many ways.  She has a fabulous sense of humor and an infectious belly laugh - when you hear her laughing, you just can't help but join in.  She is a great little athlete.  God has given her amazing athletic ability and when she is "on", there is no stopping her, there is no one better on the field.  She is strong, fast and smart - but at times, frustratingly lazy and unmotivated (something we hope that she will grow out of).  Much more important than her athletic ability, Emily has taken us by surprise in the classroom this year.  Although she's always been a good student, her teacher really encouraged her to bring things to a new level this year and she has really impressed us with how well she has done.  Her brain is like a sponge and she is eager to learn anything and everything.  Much of her spare time (including hours each week traveling to and from practices and games) is spent reading and she also likes to write stories.  She has a very deep love of Jesus and all things relating to the Church.  Emily took her First Holy Communion preparation very seriously; she loves reading her children's bible; and she is constantly pushing us to watch various biblical shows on television.  Her heart is huge and she is always looking to share hugs, kisses and snuggles.  Lee and I are truly blessed to be her parents and we can't wait to watch her grow over the next year.  Happy Ninth Birthday Emily!  We love you so much!!