Super Sister-in-Law

Erin, my fabulous sister-in-law, had her birthday this last Friday. So this short little tribute is a bit belated but nonetheless heartfelt. Although we've never been able to spend that much time together, I have observed that one of Erin's best qualities is her absolute determination to love people no matter what. Even though people may disappoint her or let her down, Erin is never one to give up on them. It's that sticktoitiveness that, for me, genuinely reflects the character of God that I especially see demonstrated again and again in the Hebrew Bible.


When it comes to being a wife, I've seen that Erin is also tremendously gifted at that thing the NT calls "submitting to one another." Their marriage is and will continue to be a blessing to their children and to so many people who need a living example of a healthy marriage. Erin is also a loving and dedicated mother. All I can say is, "wow." Without spoiling her children she still manages to lavish them with love.

I'm thankful for you, Erin, and I hope you had a great birthday ... you're a super sister-in-law!

My Sister, Jenise

This is my sister, Jenise and her husband Jon Henri and their son, Malachi. Jenise continues to ride the wave of time and has landed herself another year older. Happy Birthday, sis!

I am so proud of my sister. Where others would have become bitter and angry, Jenise has persevered through trials and become even more beautiful, kind, loving, generous, hospitable, and full of faith.

She also graduated from college this year, another testament to her persevering spirit. I remember that I used to make fun of her drawings as a child (what a brother!), but she never gave up and finished with her degree in graphic design! After being out of the country for so long I'm so thankful to be living close to Jenise and her family. You're amazing, Jenise, and I love you!

Time to Towell Off?

Nope, it was time to Towell on this past week (and weekend) with Erica's family coming down to visit us in Abilene. Our friends were wonderfully hospitable and hosted Jay and Melanie, while Nathan crashed at my bach pad and Cami and the dogs rested their weary bones with Erica. We enjoyed house church, toured campus, swam in Erica's pool, went to Hurricane Harbor in Dallas, had a photo shoot at Jacob's Dream, and had good ol fashion lazy hang out time together. Good times!

"Welcome, welcome one and all to the Williams Performing Arts Center at Abilene Christian University!" - Jay Towell

Erica braves the "million mile drop off from the sky" ride at Hurricane Harbor. If you don't cross your ankles on this one, you are in for a major wedgie.

From L to R: Ben, Melanie, Jay, Erica, Cami, and Nathan. There are also some angels in the background but I'm not sure what their names are.

After the water park, we definitely had to towel off ... but when we had to see the Towells off, we were not ready to let them go. But, if Jay follows his own traveling advise, which is, "drive really fast," then we know they got home soon and most likely we'll see them again before we know it. Miss you guys ... thanks for coming!

Jenise Berry weds JonHenri Grottis
April 27, 2006