Poppy, The Twelfth Year

Twelve years ago, at around 8.30pm, Poppy was born... and what an adventure it's been ever since. Here's a few memories from the last twelve months of this, her twelfth year.

She played an important part in our start-of-year community prayer time.

Along with Megan and Angel, she got to meet the star of Wicked, and hang out in her dressing room as she got 'made up' before watching the show. We loved it!

She starting learning the cello.

And then got to perform on stage at the Barbican Theatre, along with a huge orchestra.

She cuddled her new cousin, Jacob.

She experimented with new hairstyles.

And new 'fashion' styles, along with Angel. This is the 'Grandma' look.

She found a new pet.

And she met another 'Poppy'. Poppy the puppy.

She took up various sports... short tennis, while at Centreparcs.

Golf, at the Epping Top Golf centre.

And trampolining, in our back garden.

Leaving Laycock School was a huge thing for Poppy. She's enjoyed many years, and has made many good friends at Laycock, both students and teachers. We are so incredibly grateful for their love and support since Poppy first joined the school. Here's the 'Class of 2010'.

She's gathered many good memories from her time at Laycock.

And then she started her new school, Redden Court (secondary), in September. I think that Emma and I were more nervous than Poppy was! At her progress review this week, her form tutor said that "the class just wouldn't be the same without Poppy!"

When Poppy was two-and-a-half, she received her first cochlear implant, a miraculous little piece of technology which enables deaf people to hear. This year, she returned to Great Ormond Street Hospital to have this first one replaced/upgraded and to have a second one implanted into the other side - a gruelling six-and-a-half-hour operation. Although it's been a difficult time for Poppy ever since, for lots of reasons, she continues to amaze us with what she can endure... and we're so very proud of her.

So, Poppy has climbed a few metaphorical mountains this year! She also climbed a real mountain, Cat Bells, near Derwentwater. Hopefully this will be the first of many. :)

We love everything about Poppy. She is beautiful and wonderful, creative and energetic. She's an adventurer, bordering on 'wild' at times! And yet she also cares for people, especially for little children. She's opened up our lives in so many ways. And she's brought plenty of humour too.

Happy birthday Poppy. You're beautiful... (and so is your Mum). :)

Comments

[Dani (Northfield SA)]

reading about your beautiful family brings tears to my eyes. you guys inspire me. may you continue to be VERY blessed.

[Tim Sokell]

Beautiful, wonderful Poppy!

[Amina]

hi poopy my name is Amina i am in laycock school see you later.