This past weekend I had the privilege of hanging out with old friends in Grand Rapids. The Black family was celebrating Judy’s birthday and this was their gift to her.

I’ve known Chris and Judy forever. They were my church parents. My parents and them go way back and I’ve had the honor of growing up with this family. Being the youngest in my home, Abby was like the little sister I never had and we spent many days dressing up in her vintage clothing, putting on musical rock concerts, playing Nintendo 64, and so many other things. We also attended the same school where Andrew and I graduated together (Go Bulldogs!). With all this said the biggest influence on my life was the spiritual leadership in their home and how much I admired them- and still do! They had a big part in why I started to mentor girls in youth group. Our families from my young age of 7 served in ministry (I’ll never forget the time Abby and I snuck into the church library by climbing in the book drop box so we could watch their movies, or sneaking to the nursery to steal animal crackers- I may have been a bad influence). Sometimes we go through life and we never get to tell people how much they mean to us. Life is short so I wanted to publicly thank you Chris and Judy for the influence you’ve had on me. Love you guys! Hope your birthday was filled with laughter with this crazy bunch.

Leave a comment. Once they reach 25, Chris and Judy will receive a free 8″x10″ print of their favorite image.