a TCK kind of Birthday

May 4th, this past Saturday, was a big day. My little sister, Erika, had her nurse's pinning, and I celebrated the fact that I had lived 2 dozen years. The best part about all of it, though, was that my parents flew back from Niger and they surprised Erika and I by flying my brother down from Minnesota. I had not seen my parents in nearly 8 months and had butterflies in my stomach the whole 70 minutes that I drove home. Turning into the driveway and announcing my arrival with loud incessant honking, I couldn't begin to tell you how excited I was! What could be better than spending my birthday with family? A true gift for my TCK heart. The only one not able to come was my older sister Melissa. She was deeply missed and thought of often throughout the day. The following pictures are for her, giving her a glimpse of the festivities.

I am so proud of my baby sister. 

She's the best nurse EVER!

 

 

  

 Thanks for being such a Godly example and mentor to my sister!

 

We decided to pose with an African smile!

My birthday meal request was rice and peanutbutter sauce. So yummy!!! Seriously, one of the best meals EVER! Added bonus: no sand in the sauce! My dad brought back bottles of African cokes for all of us because, as you know, they are far superior to their American counterpart. We decided to save ours for another occasion. I had requested aloco (fried plantain), but unfortunately, there were none ripe enough. Another time. For dessert: something I never could have while living in Africa, but was/is always my favorite: oreo ice-cream dessert.

 Brother Andrew, official gift-giver.

 You are all invited to play Settlers with me. 

Putnams, better start practicing so you're ready for a game night!

 Of course, we wanted Erika to practice her nursing skills as she played with her new toys.

What's a Dorsch get-together without a good game of Pinochle?

I believe the kiddos won, right Grandma?  

What a day! What a blessing! 

For 36 blissful hours I was home.

And may the fourth be with you, too!

A shout-out to my housemate, Doh, for her talented artwork.