Emma Nicole Berges

Introducing the one... the only... Emma Nicole Berges. Born in Yakima, WA on September 17th, 2008. Weighing in at a whoppin' 9lbs. 7oz. and measuring just short of a python at 22 inches. Well done Lesley and David... I'm so honored to be an Aunt to this beautiful (and dark!) little girl.

I arrived at David and Lesley's home on Sunday, September 21st to meet Emma for the first time. Katie and William were anxious to gaze upon this baby Emma that would forever be their cousin to visit and play with. William was gentle and Katie was obsessive in a sweet, clastorphobic sort of way.
Lesley looked wonderful and able to function with relative awareness... David looked like he had just won the Lottery. It was as though there was nothing that could be handed to him that could bring greater joy and he was filled with peace.

Lesley's parents, Dave and Lori Wright, were there. Dave Sr. (labeling makes it easier to distinguish between he and my brother, David, during conversation) had started the grill and was preparing to BBQ some burgers... Lori was preparing the condiments and I was busy corraling my three children in the midst of Jersey (the beautiful border collie/great dane mix that resides) and newborn Emma. Soon my parents and sister, Hannah, arrived from the Tri-Cities and we all enjoyed an afternoon of family and grandkids. The Grandmas sat in the corner discussing the issues at hand like Emma's coloring and the like... Hannah sat on the couch following a Saturday of eleven volleyball games ready to dissolve into a puddle of jell-o at any moment... Dave Sr. sat fixated to the golf tournament on TV... Grandpa Berges (my Dad, Gerry) sat back - also watching the golf tournament - with Emma curled up and sleeping on his chest. David and Lesley just breathed. For a couple that has just endured a week of labor and birth... family and friends... sleepless nights and nursing schedules... they were extremely conversational and thoughtful. They honored the importance of family by hosting all of us and by sharing their daughter so joyfully.

Thank you to the both of you and thank you to the Lord for the birth and health of Emma Nicole. Uncle Geoff and Auntie (pronounced "au" as in ox) Jennifer Berges (of Cleveland, Ohio) we missed you and cannot wait for you to meet this little wonder. She is beautiful and wonderfully laid back... she's the perfect mix of David and Les. She is definitely NOT blonde and brings some much awaited "berges dark" to the grandchild pool.

We love you, Emma. Welcome home.