Jodi Davis Photography Blog

There is just no other way to put it—I have the BEST sister there ever was or ever will be. There I said it and I believe it with all my heart. We have always been close. We talk on the phone several times a day and either of us will drop anything and everything to help if the other one needs anything. We have cried together and laughed

until we couldn’t breathe. I have always counted on my big sis and I couldn’t possibly imagine my life without her. The Lord knew long ago that He would need my mom to return home soon, before either of us would be ready for her to leave. In return He gave us each other to lean on like other girls lean on their moms.

I thought we were close before, but in the past couple of months we have been so blessed to have spent a great deal of time together and we have grown together. Jerlyn has been sick for a long time. It has been hard to watch her go through the battle of her life, especially considering she is the same age as my mom when she passed away and Brooklyn is now the age I was at the time. But this time is different. I know that the Lord isn’t calling her home and that is a comfort to me.

We have spent a majority of the days together over the past several months. It is amazing how our relationship has grown as we have discussed the things that really matter in life–our kids, families, the gospel, trials and blessings that result and so much more. I know that she has felt like a burden at times, but she doesn’t realize how much I have cherished this time with her. I have needed her love and support and she has been there for me just as much as I have been there for her. We have laughed and cried together and the spirit has touched each of our hearts. Prayers have been answered in the quiet moments that we have spent together. I know that this is a time in my life that I will never forget. The Lord knows each of us and He is always by our side. He knows us better than we know ourselves and He knows what we need in our lives. I am grateful for the time that we have had to force ourselves to slow down and focus on the things that matter most. Maybe the laundry didn’t get done or my house was a little dirtier than normal, but my spirit was being nourished and I can guarantee that that was way more important than my house.

I can’t even begin to express my gratitude for my sister and the fact that she is still here. To any doubter out there, miracles DO exist today. I have seen them in my life. The fact that Jerlyn is alive today is nothing short of a miracle. Even doctors themselves will say that there is no other explanation. We have a loving Heavenly Father and I am so thankful that He has allowed Jerlyn to be with us still. And the fact that she is back to work today is another miracle (although I must admit that I am kind of sad that she is not hanging with us and has to work).

When things weren’t looking so good, Jer and I decided that we better get some pictures together “just in case.” I am so glad that we did because I LOVE how they turned out. A good friend and photographer, Michelle Herrick, took these for us on incredibly short notice. Please check her out if you are looking for a photographer (www.michelleherrick.com). You won’t be disappointed!

I especially love the pictures of us sitting on the couch since this is where we have spent most of our time together. Jer has been more than just a sister to me. She is my sister, mother, and one of my very best friends depending on the moment. It is a unique relationship and I know it is treasured by both of us. Our husbands roll their eyes at times, but we don’t really care. We always know that the other one is there at any time of day or night and will drop anything to help each other out. I wish everyone in the world had someone like this in their life. I love you, Jer! NOW GET BETTER!