A Love Letter

Dear Ashlee,

Today you celebrate a huge milestone - your 21st birthday. I wasn't there when you were born, but I am so happy I have been there to watch you be "born again" in Christ. While I should probably write this from your dad & I, since it's my blog I get to do what I want - and he can write his own love letter to you - this one's just from me. There are so many things I love about you - your generosity, your sweet spirit, your passion (ok - drama!!), but mostly, I love how you love Jesus.

Almost 10 years ago, I came crashing into your life & your territory with your dad. Up till then, you had him all to yourself for a while - and that was good for you - very good! I came into your life at a time that there were a lot of other changes happening - yet you handled my presence with the maturity of someone much older. Not only did you willingly share your dad with me, but you would go on to share him with two more little sisters - not always easy. You give fully of yourself to those in you life - you give your time, your heart, your things.

You are generous with you love for those your love - you have a sweet spirit of giving and forgiving. I marvel at how easily you overlook the hurts when people you care about wound you. I am amazed at how you never hold a grudge, but hold onto the best things about everyone.

You fill our house - with laughter, with stuff and with surprises. You are passionate about what you care about, what you believe in and just about everything else. There is never a doubt about where you stand on anything - from politics to religion to what I am wearing. Your honesty has saved me from many a fashion faux pax and I am grateful!

I love how you love Jesus. It fills my heart to see you walking with Him at this point in your life. The past year has been such a blessing for me to see Him in action in your life - to watch your struggle with true obedience, true repentance and true surrender and to see you emerge victorious for the Lord.

I can not begin to tell you how grateful I am for your presence in our lives and my home. I am convinced that without your help, I might have totally lost my mind especially these past three months. Your willingness to love your sisters and help with them has been a true answer to prayer. I love how you love my daughters - and they are so blessed to have you for a big sister - never a better one anywhere!

Lest you think you are perfect...I still have to re-wash every egg pan you use, your closet might be declared a federal disaster area and about your car......But I wouldn't trade what makes me crazy about you for what I love about you.

As you turn this corner of your life, my pray for you is that you will know how truly loved you are - here on earth and even more so in heaven. That you will claim your birthright as a daughter of the King and that you will walk with Him all the days of your life.

Love-

Karen