The kids and I recently flew to Texas to hang out with my sister and her kids as they transition into a new home and life in Austin. We all LOVE Austin – what a diverse and happenin’ place – from being the birthplace of Whole Food and a bastion of hippie-ness, to rubbing elbows with the starched, white-collared shirts of the business world in the Arboretum Starbucks! And of course my old college days hangouts – Chuy’s and Mt. Bonnell. Above, the whole Rowland Family (minus brother Stu) gathered at a Tex-Mex restaurant on the night of our arrival. What a fun week we had!
Melissa and I had lunch with a wonderful old friend from our days at Manchaca Baptist Church – Chris H. He was a source of encouragement and blessing to both of us.
We visited Mt. Bonnell after eating at Chuy’s and enjoyed the beautiful evening view of Lake Austin. I used to hang out there in college with my Bible study. Our leader, Cas Monaco, took us up there on a couple of occasions and we would spread out, spending alone time in prayer and study, and then join together for discussion. (Does it require mentioning that Bible study is not the typical way to spend time at Mt. Bonnel?)
One of the most exciting events of the week was watching my sweet niece, Maisie, register for sixth grade and go to camp there to prepare for the middle school experience. She did a great job, was very brave, and even met a new friend! We’re praying for you, Maisie!
Jonah and Madeline will be at the same elementary school this year – one of the best Austin has to offer! It was incredible to watch the many ways the Lord is providing for them.
Another fun outing was visiting more old friends in Georgetown, TX. The Grafs have been our wonderful friends since college and now our kids are good friends! We swam and had dinner together and the kids played non-stop. Chandler and Kory (in the back row) got to spend some extra time together. Would you believe that they are the same age? Chandler is 6’1 and going into the 8th grade! Thanks, Grafs, for letting us invade your life for a couple of days!
We packed so much into this week – this doesn’t even touch on all that was accomplished and experienced – a cookout with Robert’s side of the family, and Miss Riggs and Jack, a wonderful housewarming brunch with my sister’s closest friends, home improvement projects, grocery shopping, movies, and more – Whew!
Here we are celebrating everyone’s registry at new schools completed – fraps all around! Hurray!
We miss you guys! It was so great having you here!
Love,
Melissa Maisie Jonah & Madeline
It was wonderful to be with you and your whole family there at your fathers cookout. Glad you were able to be down here for your sister. My prayers are with you all.
Love, Jack oxoxox