Emily's 9th birthday

On Emily's actual 9th birthday she had performance at Barne's and Nobles. Her school offers what's called music appreciation. She goes twice a week at 7:15 a.m. and they teach them to sing, read music and play the recorder. When Mike and I heard she was getting a recorder we didn't expect much but a bunch of squeaks but it actually sounded really good. Especially since they didn't get them until October. Above is Emily in her "concert" clothes.
Here is the happy audience.

Emily and her good friend from school.
Oh my goodness, so grown up looking. How did that happen?
After her performance, nana and papa came over to give her their gift since Emily was having a very girly slumber party, papa wasn't coming and wanted to see her open it.
It was a telescope. She's been DYING for one. My little science girl. Saved all her money for a microscope then promptly put a telescope on her radar. I think she's content for now.
Emily at her birthday party.
My mom made Emily her favorite cake, white with 7 min. frosting. It was very pretty and had her favorite color, red, all over it.
The goody bags for the girls. Emily wanted a makeover party. Funny enough, by the time we got through the birthday events, it was movie time and they only spent about 5 min putting make up on, but they had fun.
Emily and one of her guests, Ava. Such beautiful girls!
Emily's grandma and papa John got her these. She lOVED them. She insisted on bringing a pen and the notebook on the limo ride so she could document everything.
The girls in the limo!! So much fun! So crazy and loud and amazing. From left to right, Leah, Tessa, Ava, Dejah (hidden), Emily and Molly.
The "forced to go" chaperons. Is that champagne for the adults in those cups? Why yes, yes it is!
My poor mom. She had the window seat and everyone took turns hanging out when we got to a street with lights. I think Leah spent the majority of the time there.
Blowing out the candles!

We are so proud of Emily. She has come a long way in her life. She is such a happy, easy going girl who has a passion for learning and reading and writing. She is what I call my "go to girl" because when I need a hand she always immediately says yes. So helpful with four kids. She skipped a grade this year, went from 2nd to 4th and never batted an eyelash. I was so nervous for her both academically and socially but she proved how ready she was. The teacher said she would have never known she skipped a grade if they hadn't told her and that she is easily the top in the class. I wish I had that brain. She definitely got it from daddy. And she's made some really good friends this year. I am so happy for her. God truly blessed us with Emily! Love that girl and am so excited to see where God's taking her in the coming years.