Emily

(Picture taken by my dear friend, Patrycja)

Perhaps a birthday reflection is a bit past due, but my precious little Emily turned one on August 26th. At that point in time, she had taken her first few steps (at 11 1/2 months), but she much preferred the security of using furniture, walls, and adult hands to get around. Emily was also very attached to me, so leaving her, even with papa, had to be done with stealth. At the time, she was saying, "papa," "mama," "hola," and "bye bye," but Emily was much more in the observing and listening phase of development.

Who knew in the few short months since then how much Emily would change?! My dependent girl has become an independent explorer who loves to climb, run, ride on her sister's tricycle, and get into mischief. By 12 1/2 months, she was not just walking, but running (and she hasn't stopped).

Having an older sister to imitate seems to have helped in everything from learning to drink from a cup to picking up vocabulary. Having an older sister also means that Emily has learned how to defend herself and "speak up" when she feels Katie is taking advantage of her. I sometimes stifle a laugh as Emily pushes Katie, pulls her hair, and screams at her when Katie takes a toy away. It is quite comical at times to see Emily, half the size of Katie, staking her claim. And I also have the opportunity to give another lesson in sharing and kindness!

Emily loves music and will often try to sing or dance along, especially when I am doing school with Katie. Like her sister, Emily loves to look at books and snuggle with various bears and dolls. We love the personality, sweetness and love that Emily brings to our family!