Birthday Traditions

We've been friends with Ken and Dawn longer than we've been married - in fact Ken has a big part in Greg and I getting married. Over the years we've kept in touch, but about 6 years ago, Ken became a part of Jillian's birthday celebration. He is usually "in country" the week of her birthday and manages to spend the day with us, many times helping us host birthday parties for little girls! This year we were blessed to spend a few hours (not nearly enough) together - now our tradition.

Thanks for blessing us Ken. Next year with Dawn!!

But before Ken arrived we celebrated with the Shepperson family, Josiah Venture missionaries in Slovakia. Zac graciously shared his birthday on January 2nd with Jillian while our two families hung out together over New Year's Eve. Carlson's and Shepperson's parties always include Kim's amazing German Chocolate Cake.

The 3rd party for Jillian include her school friends. A pajama party - a first for all of them.

Birthday goofy

Ending a fantastic week in Krakow, Poland at a marriage conference, we came home to our girls and our teammate Susan who loved on and cared for them while we were gone to celebrate Greg's birthday. And of course, a traditional cheesecake (Greg's favorite). Kelsey's first time to make her own with Susan's help.

Susan and Kelsey proudly showing Greg's birthday cheesecake!