Today my daughter turns 17.  Time for an online tribute and some random photos.

Jess and flowers from her Dad

Jessica is a delight – it is a word that I often think of as I think of her being in our family.  I decided to write this tribute, not in terms of her 17 years, but in terms of her character, focusing on a handful of traits that she practices.  One of the things that I notice though about Jess and her character, is that she is always working on things, never for a moment thinking she has arrived.   So the traits I see in her are:  orderliness, obedience, respect, compassion, dependability, initiative.

things Jess exhibited at the Ag.Show this year

Orderliness –  I’ll let you into a little secret – she wasn’t always orderly! It is hard to imagine but when she was 6 years old she was a little pack rat – everything had sentimental value.  I don’t know when or how the change happened – but one day I realised she loved being orderly.  These days she not only keeps her own possessions and time in order, but she helps me tremendously with mine as well.

this is the type of mess Jess likes to tackle

Obedience – this comes from a desire to obey God.  She spends time in the Word and has committed it to her heart.  She often questions things that she reads and talks about how we can live it out.  I think one of the biggest desires in her heart is to obey God.

Jess and her sister-friend, Nomi

Respect – to respect people is to make decisions that are based on knowing that the other person is special; special to Jesus, and special to you.  Jessica sees the good in people and always wants to focus on and respond to that.

Jess and her Masterchef inspired dessert

Compassion – Jess has a soft heart, a heart that is quickly turned to the hurts of others.  She notices things and steps in to help when she can.

Jess Jumps!

Dependability – where would I be without Jess!  She is my right hand girl – she can be depended on to help, she can be depended on to carry a load.  Dependability is built upon responsibility and Jess has been responsible with her time, possessions, energy, emotions, and choices for many years.

Outdoor movies with friends to celebrate Jess 17th

Initiative – there are so many times that I turn around to ask Jess to do something – and it is already done!  She sees things that need doing and she does them.  This comes from her heart to serve others.

Happy Birthday Jessica - from your whole family

Jessica you are a beautiful person – not because you do all these things, but because you have a heart to love God and love other people.