My baby sister turns 17 today!

I remember a certain night in October 17 years ago when I was waiting anxiously to receive a phone call from the hospital.  Mom and Dad had promised me they would call 

me first to tell me what the new baby was.  Around 7:30pm the call came and I remember standing on the time-out chair in the kitchen when Mom broke the news to me: "It's a girl"! I really can't tell you the elation that washed over my soon to be 9 year old self.  I ran down the hall in our house and began jumping on all the beds with joy.  I finally had a sister.  I have to say that because of our age difference I have definitely been mini-mom most of her life (sorry about that Jo).  However, I am totally enjoying this new grown up side to Jo and our friendship that has been growing for some time.  

I have spent the last few weeks sending Jo 17 cards, each containing one reason why I love her. I'd thought in her honor I'd share them with the blogging world too! 

1) She can always make me laugh or smile 

2) She is super talented (musically, taking pictures, etc.)

3) She is affectionate (who in our family isn't?)

4) She's growing up and impressing me every day with who she is becoming

5) She understands all the inside jokes from our childhood. I won't mention the one including a certain brother in a robe b/c he might kill me.  No one but us thinks it's funny anyway! haha.

6) She is a fabulous aunt to Maddy!

7) She's honest.  If you ask her what she thinks, she'll tell you. 

8) She laughs at the same things I do and we are both way too easily entertained

9) Wherever we go, whatever we do, we'll always go through it together

10) She is responsible

11) She spared me from having three brothers (no offense Al & Jeff, love you both a lot, but I wouldn't trade my Jo Jo for ANYTHING)

12) She's loves Jesus and maintains integrity

13) She is beautiful, inside and out!

14) She is committed to work in school, sports, piano, church, etc. 

15) She is one of my best friends

16) She cares about our family.  It's a testament to our parents (and the Lord) that we all actually like spending time with each other.  We always have a good time!

And,

17) She is the best sister in the world! And she's mine :)

Jo I'll love you always, Jenn