This is my sister devouring human body parts just moments after she was turned into a zombie… oh no, wait… that was the B-grade horror movie I watched last night. Why did it seem so real?

Anyway, this is, in fact, my sister on her 5th birthday, rather engrossed in licking the icing off the doll cake topper. Grandmother made the cake (just like she did for Dad when he was growing up).

So, happy birthday, sis! Hope you’re having a good one. Remember to relax, breathe, and (zombie or not) try not to eat your cake topper. I love you.

Today is my dad’s birthday. This photo was taken on his 14th birthday. His mother always made a cake to celebrate the special day–something she even did for us grandchildren. Also of note is the framed quilted wall hanging behind Dad. This is one of at least three such hangings made by my grandmother. Like many of the women in my family, she was a proficient craft artist and worked in many mediums over the years.

Dad, a huge thanks goes out to you for all your help along Jordan’s Journey. It would not have been possible without you. I love you, and happy birthday!