Emilia Is Nine

We recently celebrated Emilia's ninth birthday - she had a larger gathering a few days before her birthday proper and a special dinner on her actual birthday.  Since her heart is with anything ballet these days, we themed her party accordingly and hired two teen ballerinas to surprise her.  They were a smash hit and Emilia had a blast.

Dance of the Little Swans - A favorite of Emilia's

We decorate our dining area for at least a week.

Dairy and nut free cake balls

Our friend Emilia made a special present for our Emilia

Our school does not allow sweet treats for birthday celebrations, so Emilia, our funniest child with a wonderful sense of humor, took in a joke for each of her classmates on her actual birthday.

Emilia enjoyed her birthday dinner with our cousins.  I don't know anyone who sings Happy Birthday as enthusiastically as Emilia does and she certainly did not hold back on her own special day.

Blowing out the candle

Sweet daughter, we want you to know

that even if your past will always complicate your present,

you are enough.

You were an original blessing to your Bulgarian mother

who welcomed you into her life against all reason.

Your are always and forever a treasure to our family.

Your are a miracle in progress

and we can't wait to see what comes next.

Happy birthday, ballerina!

We love you.