Emma's Birthday

 Emma, weeks before her 4th birthday, requested a glow-in-the-dark birthday.  Her special day, January 25th, began with glow necklaces, in the bedroom with black-out shades drawn.

Our four year old graduated to a whole vitamin!  Judson is looking on, drooling.  (He looks forward to being two and finally getting a half vitamin.)

 Another request was for strawberry cake.  I searched and searched for a strawberry cake recipe that did not call for boxed jello or boxed cake or something that you have to be in America to be able to make.  Pinterest didn't let me down!  Found a recipe that used fresh strawberries, strained and cooked down to make a thick syrup.  Cupcakes were moist and yummy.

 Of course, her party had to be in the dark.  Pictures were hard to get :)

 We went through about 150 light sticks, used for decorations, costumes, and games.  Played a ring toss game, had a relay race, and played hide and seek, all with the lights out.

Love, love, love this little girl!  With a household of boys, Emma's personality definitely stands out.  She is all about dolls, tea parties, dress up, and absolutely LOVES pink.  Emma is the mother to all of us, patting and consoling when someone is hurt, and teaching and giving instructions in play and for real.  She is also regularly well protected by her three strong, and dependable brothers.  Her laugh is contagious, especially for Jacob.  (As I write this she and Jacob are giggling in their beds.)  So thankful for Emelia Ruth Joachim and that God has placed her in our family!