Today is Emma’s 16th birthday. I have thought about this post for 7 months now. I still don’t even know what to say.
I can’t believe she is not here with us. I just can’t even believe it.
There just isn’t a scenario in which I would live this life without her. She is my oldest girl. Our rock. The only one who would answer their phone or text me back. My hardest delivery and most stubborn child. But the child who was most like me.
Emma 15th birthday photo credit: Avery Ivanovsky
There is so much to say. Yet, I can’t find the words.
My husband wrote a beautiful message on his site, that you can read HERE. I know that it was very hard for him to do. I am so proud of him for being able to say anything at all so personal.
We are asking that you help us remember Emma today by doing a random act of kindness for someone today. Please read more about Emma and why we do these acts of kindness in her name. Emma’s site is called A Gift From Emma.
You can print her pass along cards and hand them out.
If you want to read more about what I have written about the grief that you feel when you loose a child, you can see my posts about Emma here.
Amy Plucker says
Prayers and hugs for all of you. There is nothing worse than the loss of a child. I’m so glad that your family has remained strong in your love for one another and have each other to lean on. The milestone events are always the hardest days. Keeping you in our thoughts.
Heather says
I am so sorry for your loss. I know how hard it can be to celebrate a birthday of someone who is no longer here. I have celebrated 9 birthdays without my son, but it is important to honor their lives, just as you are asking, by doing something that shows what an important person they were and still are.
Pat medina says
Happy happy birthday dear sweet Emma…16 is a big birthday for your parents and family to remember you…know that your mom and her posts inspire me to be a better wife, mom, grand mom, and nurse…she knows just the right words to motivate …may you feel all the love today and forever sweetest girl as you watch us all from up above…you celebrate your day by reading a good book and listening to your music..God Bless you and your entire awesome family.
The Garcias says
Tiffany, you too are brave to write about your sweet Emma. Happy Birthday Emma! I never knew her but somehow so wonderfully through your shared emotions and experiences, I feel like I knew her and loved her too. May her spirit warm you on days such as this where you miss her so terribly. The random act of kindness sounds like a perfect way to honor your daughter’s life here on earth. I’m excited to share this with our family. May God continue to comfort you and your family.
Anonymous says
Somehow with all the posts I missed this yesterday. It had to be so hard to write. It’s hard trying to find words, you did it beautifully. She would be proud (and maybe slightly embarrassed for getting this much attention – but she’d secretly love it)
Sharon Mullen says
Happy Sweet Sixteen to Emma, I feel I know her through all you have shared, my thoughts are with you and your family, and I thank you for all you share. Emma was so loved , and such a beautiful loving girl that lives on in all our lives and is showing us how to care and love still, hugs