My Sis - Jessica Anne Hekman

Today is my best friend Jessica's 30th Birthday.  As I've been contemplating this post for a while, I thought it only timely to post it today in honor of her.

Jessica and I have been friends for 18 years now.  Our entire lifetimes have been woven together. 

Every important life event has been documented together.  The tears that we've shared have been those of joy, pain, heartache and sorrow.  We've traveled the country  (well, at least the left side of the country) and Canada together.  We've shared each other's graduations, marriages, pregnancies and children.  I can't imagine my life without her. 

Though I don't have one by birth, she is my sister.

Jessica is an effortless cook.  She entertains with the ease that would make Martha Stewart envious.  She has no problem with laughing at herself, and will teach you to do the same.  I love that. 

Jessica, you have taught me so much.  I am convinced that I am a better person for the countless lessons you've taught me through the years.  It is amazing how you do everything with such ease and joy.  I admire you in profound ways.

I thank God that he has so intricately woven us into each other's lives.  When we hung out for the first time and watched Forrest Gump in the theater, did you ever think that we'd still be friends into our "thirties"?

I hoped so.

Thanks for your grace with me.  I'm so thankful for these years, and look forward to many more.  Love you. 

Happy birthday.