HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMMA!

Today we celebrate Emma's 8th birthday. Eight years ago, the joy of Emma's birth knew no limits. The entire family welcomed this beautiful little blue-eyed redhead with open arms and boundless love. Little did we know that Emma would become such a focal point in our lives; that this tiny child would teach us so much.

Over the past eight years, we have learned of a syndrome called Angelman, been introduced to the world of special education and IEPs, fought for services to improve the quality of Emma's life, services that no family should have to fight for, and met some truly incredible people along the way.

Throughout all of this, Emma has been a constant. She overlooks our shortcomings and loves us with all her being. She takes on challenges with a sense of determination and strength I have yet to acquire. Emma is tenacious, bright, michevious but most of all loving.

On this celebration of Emma's birth, I thank God for the blessing he bestowed on our family when he brought Emma into our lives.

Love you bunches, little girl!

Grandma

JOY!

I moved Grandma to tears today. I walked independently during therapy, something I've done in the past, but quite some time ago. Mind you, this was not just a few steps but rather a long stroll around the therapy room, down a hallway, outside and around the playground and back to the therapy room. I figure why do things in a small way when you can get such great reactions for going big!

Big shouts out to Julie, Vicki, George & Myra, my former and current CCS OTs and PTs - they make great things possible. Grandma is so grateful for all their efforts!

My philosophy is shoot for the sun, the moon and the stars, they are all within your reach in one form or another! My family has always known wonderful things are within my grasp and I'm here to prove them right. My path may be a little different than the route most kids take and it may take me a little longer to reach my goals but with love and a little bit of help, I'm going to be successful!

Here's a video Grandma took using her phone...this is the last part of my walk. Enjoy!

Big hugs & kisses to all,

Emma

PROTECTIVE GRANDMA

I appreciate all who read and comment on Life with Emma. Having said that, I am now carefully monitoring any comments and making the decision as to whether or not a comment can be published or considered spam. I am not happy about having to do this, but there are folks in this world who choose to be unkind and/or use this as a forum for their own agendas. I will not allow such comments to be directed toward any member of my family. I welcome your comments, HOWEVER, they must be in English. Thank you for your ongoing support! Hugs to all. Emma's Grandma

AND LIFE GOES ON

Jacob turns one on Saturday! Happy birthday, little brother! Who knows, maybe I'll decide to take a short walk like I did last year. Just need to remind everyone that I'm the big sister! Great things planned for the birthday celebration...jolly jump, pinata and lots of family.

Cousin Myles made his long awaiting arrival on April 25th. Yet another boy for me to contend with. He's a cute little guy who gives me great big smiles and Aunt Jenny and Uncle Jerry seem to like him, so I guess we'll keep him around. It helps that he's a redhead just like me! Bryce, Myles' big brother, came to visit so I was the only girl surrounded by a sea of boys...geez!

School will be starting soon. I said good-bye to my teachers and friends at the end of the school year 'cuz I'll be transferring to a school closer to home. Grandma had a hard time telling people good-bye but I'm looking forward to making new friends, working with my new teacher and aides, and getting to know all my new therapists. This should be an exciting year!

Aunt Jackie's and Luke's wedding is just a few months away. Silly Grandma is starting to move into panic mode! Grandpa keeps telling her to relax, but she refuses to listen. We're anxiously awaiting the arrival of my gown and flower basket...then the fun begins. Can you imagine an active, almost seven-year old girl holding still for dress alterations?! My dress is long but Grandma wants it hemmed to tea length; she thinks I might trip in a long gown. Who knows, I may surprise her and do just fine with a long dress! Will let you know how things work out!

Gotta go...mischief calls & there are little boys to keep in line! Hugs to all! XOXO, Emma

COUNTING DOWN

Jacob and I are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our cousin Myles, but I don't think we're nearly as excited as Aunt Jenny and Uncle Jerry! Although Myles tried making an early escape which was thwarted (thanks to me!), it appears he's now decided to stay in his cozy compartment until the very last minute. The family is hoping he has a change of heart and decides to make his appearance this weekend since everyone will be off work, but one never knows with these little kids.

Since I am the oldest, I, of course, will do my best to school Myles in much the same manner I've used with Jacob...always give the old folks a beguiling smile when you're about to get into mischief, be sure you announce you're up to something by giving a little giggle, and most of all, apologize with great big hugs.

BIG SIS!

I became a big sister on August 14th! The rest of the family and I welcomed my baby brother, Jacob Alexander, into the world at 5:49 a little over a week ago. Now I have someone to help while I spread the fun and mayhem! Hmmm, wonder how often I'll be able to let folks know "Jacob did it!" Probably won't work too often since my mischievious giggle always gives me away!

Not to be outdone by the arrival of a new brother, I also decided it was time to take a few independent steps on my own while Mom was in delivery. What better way to remind folks who's actually in charge? Look out world I'm ready to take you on now!

Grandma is writing this for me since I'm on "holiday." Aunt Jenny and Uncle Jerry decided I needed an "only child" weekend and we're hanging out in Disneyland! Whoohoo! There's talk of going on Star Tours...I'll let you know how that one goes. As always I'm having a blast with Auntie and Uncle; they know how to treat a girl!

Here's a brief video of one of my first walk! Check out the look on Uncle Jerry's face...he was so proud of me! Enjoy!!

A LOSS

Emma lost a truly special person on July 5th. GGK, Great-grandmother Karayan (her daddy's nana), passed away while at home.

GGK had a special place in her heart for Emma. She treasured the time she spent with Emma, always referring to her as "our little angel" even before Emma's diagnosis of Angelman Syndrome.

GGK will be missed for her unwavering love for her family, her generous nature, and her positive outlook on life.

Soar with the angels...we will meet again.