What happens when you combine three childhood friends, two joyful mothers, and three stylish outfits worthy of a model runway walk? Emma’s senior photography session! She was nervous. Not everyone likes getting their picture taken. Pictures last forever. Nevertheless, we were determined to get her excited about this session. We put her into her first pose. “Alright, Emma, we know this might feel weird, but we promise it looks great!” She smiled, but you could tell she felt uncomfortable. So we asked her sister and mom to make her laugh. Boom! Gorgeous smile. Radiant. So we showed her the back of the camera. She beamed. For the rest of the session, she smiled, she laughed, and she glowed.

We have known Emma for a long time. Emma is the younger sister of my best friend, Rylee. The three of us grew up like sisters. We played like sisters, fought like sisters, and now we love like sisters. Emma has a real heart for serving people and the Lord. She always has. That’s why we weren’t surprised when Emma talked about joining ROTC and then pursuing a career in the medical field. She didn’t want to be a doctor – someone known around the world who holds a fancy title, but a person who helps others during the worst times of their life. Someone essential but often overlooked. A thankless job. She wants to be a nurse. Someone who works directly with people to help them feel better.

We know that Emma will be successful in all her endeavors. Emma, we hope you pursue your dream and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way because you deserve it. We do not doubt that you will become what and who you want to be. We hope our time together this summer helped you see what we see when we look at you – a brilliant, talented, and gorgeous woman on the inside and out. We love you, Emma!