Celebrating Emma

As we were preparing to be back in the States for these few weeks, lots of people asked how long we were planning to stay.  Our answer was usually something along the lines of "we'll be there for Thanksgiving and Christmas and through the New Year!"  And if Emma happened to be anywhere within earshot she would cheerfully chime in with "AND MY BIRTHDAY!"  

Emma turned 5 years old today!  She was celebrated simply and thoroughly and extravagantly and thoughtfully.  Her request was for a "party with games and cake."  (today we realized that she had a few previously unspoken requests about the specifics...but that's ok....)

A few pre-party practice rounds of Duck, Duck, Goose

 She helped with every part of the cake and cupcake making

 Moments

 Eli wearing Emma's new hat

 Trying out the art of taking a selfie

Under the table with the White Boys

 Coloring with Aaron

 Marco's Pizza!

 A variety of versions of Duck, Duck, Goose

Exuberant Joy

Emma is a rare and splendid treasure...full of life and energy and fun and songs.  She is a strong leader with passions that run deep.  Her prayers are sincere and her love beautiful.

It's an honor to share life with this one and we're grateful to be a part of the plans that God has for her life.  God uses her in special ways - like simply humming "Ode to Joy" a she was playing on the computer in mid-ships and planting the song in the heart of a crew mate who then went on to share that song in multiple situations.  Or serving by asking if there's anything she can do to help.  Or cheerfully saying hello to all sorts of people (she's come a long way on that one!).

Emma is an essential part of the Cash Crew.  Thank you, God, for the gift of Emma.

Surely there will be more to come.