Happy 11th Birthday Erika!!!!
Today, July 3rd is Erika’s (aka Pinky) birthday. She is 11 years old today. This, being an even year, all the children are odd numbered ages (Holly 17, Jessica 15, Mitch, 13, Erika, 11). Erika liked being called Pinky (or is it Pinkie?) – I think it was because she likes the color pink…but I didn’t think of asking her why she liked that name when I had the opportunity to ask her. I miss her and Jessica.
When we played games, Erika would cheat – but not in a bad way. She’d cheat to her own detriment, wanting to help you out. Erika would ask to see your cards, or ask what you wanted her to play and have no problem doing that, even if it made her go backwards. It made it hard at times when I would try to do the same thing for her. She is a very thoughtful girl and was good at giving compliments and nice words. I have a nice note on my Palm™ that she made for me. Sure, it was probably more of a challenge or just fun for her to write something on the Palm™, but she did write something encouraging instead of just her name or something about herself.
In January of 2009, the kids were in a play. Erika had a small part and was wearing sort of a fancy dress. It was either before the play started or during Intermission I was talking to my dad when Erika came to see us. I remember saying something like “they don’t make ‘em any cuter than that.” It’s nice memories like this that I never want to forget.
Erika ususally had a smile on her face. I’m not so sure it was always a genuine smile from really being happy, but a smile none the less. I can still ‘hear’ that unique voice of hers, though it’s getting harder to remember exactly what it sounded like as time goes by. But, watching a short video with her talking brings it right back. Here’s a very short video of Erika back in 2008. I don’t remember exactly what was being discussed, but it sounds like she’s talking about how old she will be when something happens.
I hope and pray that she is happy where she’s at, but also pray for a miracle.
Happy birthday, Erika. I love you!
