Sissi's #14 birthday

And, our youngest is now 14!

This year, since we were in the US, she wanted a retro roller skating party with her Youth Group friends. It was really a fun time for them all and we're so thankful for our friends at United Family Church in Lewisville that made Sissi's birthday such a special day.

The roller skating derby group.

Some of the girls.

Skating around the rink.

Then, they all came back over to the house and Sissi changed into her new dress that she had wanted for her birthday and we enjoyed Red Velvet cupcakes and snacks galore while opening up presents.

Blowing out the candles on her cupcakes.

My sweet girl!

All the friends, enjoying cupcakes and snacks.

Opening the cards and the presents.

We bought her a couple of dresses she wanted and a necklace with her name on it.

A personalized mug from her friend, Morgan.

Fire pit and time for S'mores.

Then, on her actual birthday, we went to Carowinds down on the NC/SC border.

So, so many fun roller coasters.

There were really no lines, the park was so empty on a Monday when everyone is heading back to school. We walked onto pretty every ride we wanted to ride.

Is it possible to do too many roller coasters...well, when you do 6 in about 2 hours, your tummy really tells you it's time to take a break.

So, we did some of the more fair and carnival type rides.

I used to love this ride at the fair in Iowa when I was growing up.

Indy, loving the old truck.

Another one of the crazy roller coasters. All of the themes were really cool.

Krypto and Sissi coming off the ride.

Indy went on this one with Krypto and Sissi. I stayed off and took the pictures and videos.

When the rain hit and most of the rides were closed, we got Sweet Frog.

And then, just as we were getting ready to leave, they reopened the Fury 325 and so Krypto and Sissi got another chance for a super fun roller coaster ride.

It was our first time and we loved it. Carowinds, we'll definitely recommend you and we'll be back.

Just some of the beautiful magnolias in the park....

because I love flowers and I couldn't resist not sharing.

Family gathering for Grandma Stamp's funeral

About a month ago Indy's mother passed away after a rather short fight with lung cancer. We were able to have Indy and Gwangi return from a road trip to Florida and then we repacked and the five of us (and the pets) started driving north to Indiana for the funeral. Several family members were able to come to Valparaiso as well and it was such a blessing to be able to be together.

A painting of a photo of Indy's mom when she graduated from her nurse's training.

Family photos and her diploma from school.

Our nephew reading from the Bible during the ceremony.

Indy was able to read as well.

And so was our niece.

Indy and his brother.

One of our nieces, who shared a birthday, today - 24 August, with Grandma Stamp.

Family photo.

Both of the families together following the ceremony for Grandma Stamp.

Grandma Stamp's twin sisters, Eva and Neva.

Flowers that were received.

More flowers and food after the time at church.

We all came back to Jon and Maria's house for some time to talk and share a meal together.

So thankful for the opportunity to be with one another and go through pictures.