Happy 14th birthday Emma Ann Clickman!
We had fun at your house before heading to Margaritas. I couldn’t resist getting you more Stonewall Kitchen champagne maple mustard, our favorite! I also captured your birth time: 5:15pm!!
Grammy and I bought you a professional guitar, a Taylor. You were surprised and love it. Keep playing and learning – being able to play an instrument (especially guitar) music will serve you well throughout your life. It’s a “magnet” skill that attracts other people because music makes us all feel good. Uncle Tim didn’t know anyone when he went away to Boston College but his ability to play guitar in his dorm room opened up the door to many new friendships that have lasted since.
And now, ta da, a few words about my grand daughter Emma Ann Clickman:
You’re a special girl with uncommon kindness, compassion, maturity and a rare interest in others.
Emma = “mindful”
Some kids (and adults) are sort of stuck in their own world, not aware of what’s going on around them. Not you. When Grammy and I are hanging out with your family or at a game, you’re happy to hang around and join the conversation vs. escape. You’re so easy to be around and it’s where you want to be. I appreciate – that about you.
there’s a word for this: “mindful.” Mindful is a super popular “live life better’ philosophy focused on our ability to fully appreciate each moment we are living vs. not paying attention and thinking about other things. It’s a real gift and you have it.
Emma Clickman = compassionate
I’ve never known another kid who spends so much time thinking of others, trying to make them feel better, brighten their day, make a difference. The other day you talked about how you had given some of your birthday money to someone. This year you asked your friends to bring toys for your dogs (vs. gifts for you). You’ve already said how next year you want people to donate to a pet shelter in lieu of gifts. You have such a beautiful soul.
Emma = caring
Our adventures together through the years have been a highlight of my life. Whether zip-lining, swimming, boogie boarding, flying or jumping off 20-foot boulders together, it’s always a blast hanging around with you. I slowed down a bit this year with my shoulder surgery but am hoping to be back at it soon.
Emma = adventurous
We’ve ziplined and jumped off boulders in a lake together and done all kinds of cool things. You’re brave and willing to try new things.
Emma = young woman not “girl”
It’s mind-blowing how much you’ve grown the past two years. Woosh, just like that. Now you’re one of the tallest girls in your class and the tallest on your soccer teams. How did that happen?? So neat.
Emma = natural beauty
I know many teenagers (especially) who beat themselves up on “looks” – don’t EVER do this! You’re a natural beauty with such a pretty face, (I love your freckles), perfect smile, and long body. You’re a natural beauty! Never compare yourself to others – just be yourself, embrace it, love it, appreciate it.
Emma = epic
I’m proud of who you are – and who you’re becoming – as you ease into your teenage years. You’ve got such an epic life ahead of you.
Lots of love.
