Ode to Jessica

Today is my only sister's birthday. I have been so wrapped up in my own crazy life that I forgot about it until last night. So since I'm a slacker sister, this post will have to do for now.
I have the most amazing sister. She is one of the most kind and generous people that I know. One of the things that I love most about her is how much she is willing to LOVE me and my growing family. She loves to hear how my kids are doing, and my kids dote upon her as well. She was always sending packages filled to the brim with clothes and sweet notes. I will forever be indebted to her and her kindness. My kids would have looked like ragamuffins if it wasn't for those sweet packages. Not only is she generous with my children, but is generous to me. In 2005 I spent a week with her and her husband. It was a life altering experience for me. I had never been treated with such love, affection, kindness and generosity. Since having children I had forgotten about "Me". Since that trip I have rediscovered who I am and have become a better person for it. So thank you Jessica, for being the greatest sister a girl could ever have.
And now, she is the mother of 2 adorable twin boys, Asher and Soren. I knew she was going to be a great mother. But watching her and hearing her feelings on motherhood, she is blowing my socks off. Everyday I learn from her how to be a more kinder, gentler mother. And more importantly, how I need to just enjoy being a mother. It truly is a privilage and honor to be a mother. I am grateful to her and her example.
Jessica and I haven't always gotten along. In fact, it wasn't until I had Jaren did we really become friends. I regret this. She is such an amazing person and it kills me to have her living so far away. It's a darn good thing that we now have blogs, and e-mail and cell-phones. I love my sister and love communicating with her on a daily basis.
Happy Birthday Jessica, you are a huge blessing in my life!!!!