Happy Birthday Emery!

Our little princess turned 8 over the weekend. I can't believe it!

Finally, after 7 years of trying, I finally got Emery to 7-Eleven to have a free Slurpee on her birthday, 7-11. For years, we never lived anywhere near a 7-Eleven in KS and NM.

We celebrated with some donuts first thing in the morning, thanks to the Petta's (more on that later).

Since we were on a trip last week, we didn't have time to celebrate her 8th birthday with her promised earrings so we got them today. About 2 years ago, we told Emery that if she proved herself responsible and mature to not overly focus on her appearance but to focus on her character, we would let her get earrings. She kept checking in - How am I doing mom? Am I still on track to get earrings? - for years. And she showed herself ready for them. So she picked herself up some cross earrings. I still remember how much she loved her first pair of earrings 6 years ago (click here and here).

It is so fun to have Emery as our daughter. I know Sandy loves having her to do all sorts of fun girl things together. Emery is so helpful in the kitchen and all around the house. She loves to cook and be a hard worker. She loves animals, roller skating, singing and especially, gymnastics. She loves crafts and drawing too. She definitely loves God's Word and works hard to truly receive God's Word in her heart. She is conscientious, careful and quite disciplined. She has started reading very well recently too.

She's my little girl, and hopefully, I have a few more years left of carrying her close! We love you Emery! Happy birthday!