Emma Joy

Yesterday was a really special day for our family

as we celebrated Emma's 19th birthday.

Last year on July 22nd Karl lay in a coma and we did not know what the outcome would be.

It was a very difficult day to celebrate her 18th birthday.

{Picture taken in Uganda when Emma and I were there bringing Ruby home.}

But this year we made up for it - big time - 

we celebrated the girl whose life has already impacted so many....

We also knew in the corner of our hearts, that as Emma prepares to move to Uganda in 3 months, 

this would be our last guaranteed birthday of Emma's at home.

We made sure to make every second count...

Tomorrow

 I will show you all the things we did to give Emma memories that would last,

but for now, 

I want to honor our precious daughter,

and thank the Lord publicly for the privilege of being her mom.

Her life is known by her tenderness for others, her gentle speech, her gracious kindness,

 her spunky upbeat joy, her prankster personality,

her love for all she meets, her peaceful spirit. 

Emma hears the Lord speak very clearly.

He has spoken some powerful things.  Some of which are tucked away...

to watch and see as God unfolds it all. 

Emma knew from the time she was only about 7 years old that God

 had called her to Africa to serve the orphan and she has been

 on a mission since then.  Steadily preparing for the future that God 

would unfold bit-by-bit over the last 12 years.

{Here's a link to her blog, in case you haven't ever checked it out.}

Having traveled to Uganda 11 times now, Emma is no stranger to the land God has called her to. 

In fact when she arrives at one village the people gather shouting 

and chanting, "Emma!  Emma!  Emma!"  They know she loves them so! 

Many years ago on her ipod, she had engraved, 

"Ugandan at Heart.  Isaiah 6:8"

The Lord has some amazing things in store for her and all she ministers to. 

I know many of you have been blessed, as well, by our Emma Joy's life.

Would you please be willing to join me in wishing our treasure-girl

 a very, very Happy 19th Birthday?