Missouri Trip {Part Two}

A mural on the wall of a western store that we stopped at.

During the second half of our trip,  Amanda got her wish - to see her brother!  She hasn't seen him for 5 months, as he has been in basic training. Her excitement was so evident!  It was so fun to watch her when she saw Derek.  She said "Is that my brother?  He's HUGE!"  Then, as soon as we stopped, she scrambled out of the vehicle and literally "attacked" Derek, almost knocking him over.  I was blessed to be a witness of this and it was so obvious that she loves her brother. 

OK, so here's some pictures of our time together:

We went out for lunch later that day. 

Amanda, examining Derek's dog tags. 

Here's the mess that Amanda and I left after getting ready for the dinner.  We had a major time cut (20 minutes rather than an hour!) and had to hurry to get ready!

Here we are in front of our "mess". (after the dinner)

Amanda and Mr. Richter.

Singing the National Anthem before the ceremony.

"Yes, Sergeant!" 

We also went to a museum.  Here's Amanda "driving" a boat. :) 

That night, we watched the NFR (National Finals Rodeo)... 

...and I studied Greek. 

Beware of.........AMANDA! :) 

We went to a cute little diner near our hotel for lunch.  The food was delicious! 

Here's our reflection on the outside of the diner.  Praise God that we got home safely and are now reunited with our families!  Our trip was wonderful and we made some amazing memories.