Happy Birthday!!I remember four years ago today, sitting next to your mom's hospital bed, settled in for a long labor, when they decided you were an emergency and had to come right then. Oh, I was so nervous and so excited! I called your dad, who was at Wendy's, and convinced him that yeah, he really did need to rush right back. I attempted to cut the nervous tension in the room and keep your mom from totally freaking out. I joked and giggled about having the honor of being there while her pubes were shaved. I congratulated your dad and hugged and kissed your worried mom goodbye, knowing that the next time I saw her, our lives would be changed forever.
Wow, were they ever. I still remember the total quiet in your mom's hospital room the next day. How I crept over and stole the little bundle off of her lap and marveled at the lightness of you in my arms. Folding back the corner of the little striped receiving blanket to reveal your perfect little old lady hands, with their long tapered fingers and perfectly shaped nails. Sneaking a foot out to press a kiss on the soft little sole. Pulling 6 month old Big Kid up on to the bed so he could get his first look at you. I have to admit that he wasn't impressed.
But we knew that as best friends, we had just created new best friends. Made them from scratch you could even say. I still remember rubbing your mom's belly and chattering excitedly about what the future would hold for you two, and watching your friendship grow on it's own has been more fun than we could have imagined.
Have a Happy 4th Birthday Emily! By the way, I had to call your mother yesterday and remind her that today was the day. You're welcome for that. I'm also mostly responsible for the kick ass birthday party you're going to have in a couple of weeks. Just making sure credit goes where it is due.
I love your silly, sassy little self, and so does Big Kid.
Sincerely,
Aunt Ashley
