Jessica Hailley - the Graduate.

My niece, Jessica Hailley, graduated from high school yesterday.  I wanted, more than anything, to be there to celebrate with her, but I had to miss it because of work.

When did my Little J blossom into this stunning young woman? She is absolutely breath-taking and so grown up. When did that happen?

I cried when I first saw these photos. If you know me, or any of the other Jansen women, you will know that this is typical -- we're an emotional bunch. I'm just so proud of Jessica and of the little girl young woman she is.  She is absolutely gorgeous, but her physical beauty in no way compares to beautiful person she is. She is smart, caring, sensitive, thoughtful, enthusiastic, hardworking, gentle, fun, innocent and entirely delightful. She is helpful, gracious, forgiving, honest, supportive... need me to go on?

Jessica with my beautiful sister, Sharlene.

Jessica is a beautiful example of someone who acts her age.  Do you know what I mean by this? She isn't trying to be older. She isn't in a hurry to grow up. She knows she's a kid (and I use this term loosely) and she enjoys that. She is perfectly content being who she is -- which shows maturity far beyond her years.

When I look at Jessica I see a strong young woman who is fiercely loyal and tenderly loving. I see a soft soul and a beloved friend.

Jessica is an open book. She's the type of person who waltzes into our house and tells it like it is. She's bold as brass and is never embarrassed or ashamed of who she is or what she thinks. She has always told me (and everyone) exactly what she thinks of boys, when she is struggling with friendships, when she had a rough day, when she needs some extra love, and when she is feeling fabulous. She doesn't just dump it all on you though, she is always ready to lend an ear when you need it. She loves sharing who she is and thinks it's perfectly normal to tell your aunts/uncles/family/friends everything. I love that about her. For example, she told all of us about her first kiss within 24 hours of it happening (two weeks ago :)). Yup, Little J has a boyfriend! That's enough to throw me into full-blown panic mode. She can't be old enough for that! But she is. And she is very level-headed about it all. She has asked me all sorts of relationship questions -- thoughtful ones too.

Next year Jessica will be going to school in Iowa. Dordt College, here she comes!! Two of my cousins will be attending Dordt next year so I'm sure they will all have fun together. Oh man, I just love her to pieces. I can't help it.

By the way, my Mom made her dress. Didn't she do a great job???