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Allison McKeany's avatar

I have been keeping a journal of many of her messages, some of my favorites:

1. I don't like this --> boring --> I want --> music (when daddy put her on the potty)

2. Something is wrong --> grumpy (to her teacher when she arrived at school one day)

3. I don't like this --> noisy (when sister and her friends were playing music too loud)

Love you so much sweet girl, happy 7th birthday!

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Rita McKeany's avatar

Beautifully written Lyle. I wrote this morning in my Morning Pages about the day of Emily's birth. Em is doing amazing and I am so grateful she is learning to communicate more. I am looking forward to giving you all a big hug and kiss tomorrow! Love and hugs, Mom

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Jude Klinger's avatar

That photo says it all. So much love bouncing between you. Happy Birthday, Em!

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Kartik Varma's avatar

This is heart wrenching to read, and as a dad, I’m sure each moment is worth treasuring for infinity. Thank you for penning down these words. God bless your daughter!

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E.L. Zeitgeist's avatar

I love these birthday letters SO much, Lyle! I’m so excited for you guys now that you’re communicating with the PODD book!!

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Kris Burbank's avatar

"By her side forever." And always her biggest fan. Happy birthday, Em. A lot to celebrate!

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Peter Moore's avatar

Precious moments of clarity and communication! Lessons for all of us in that, courtesy of brilliant Emily.

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Sara Campbell's avatar

Happy Birthday, sweet Emily! What a lovely reflection.

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CansaFis Foote's avatar

…y’all are amazing…she is amazing…

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Sara El-Sayeh's avatar

Happy birthday, Em!

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Anker's avatar

Lovely, Lyle. I can’t imagine how wonderful it is to be finding ways to communicate even more with Em, and her to be able to show more of what’s inside.

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Irene K's avatar

Happy birthday to dear Emily and the parents too :) A beautiful read. There is so much grace and love radiating in this post.

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Kelly Wilde Miller's avatar

Aw wow. Thank you for bringing us into your family and Em’s delightful world. I love how she focuses on exactly what she wants. Happy birthday, Emily! 💛

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