Pool Party

The morning of June 9, 2012 was a beautiful one.  The sun was shining brightly, and the kids woke up laughing.  Bennett tried to tell Harper it was her birthday the previous evening, and she was finally convinced by breakfast.  She soon was dressed in her fancy new outfit.  The family would arrive at 11am, and we had some food to prep and beer to chill.  I sent Andy out for some wine, and he returned with a pool and double racing slipNslide.

"It's a perfect day for a pool party, right?"
"Perfect."

I quick called Amy to make sure the girls had their suits, and soon after, Harper jumped in the freezing cold pool - and her fancy new outfit was replaced with her swimsuit.

We always follow the same schedule for parties.  Play, eat, gifts and cake.  So, it was grilled burgers, veggies and dogs for lunch, then time for cake and gifts.  Andy has this thing for cakes - I'm fairly certain he has a crush on the little cake making lady in Cold Spring - regardless, this year's cake was pretty sweet.  (pun intended)

Harper, our little June Bug. (June Bugs are quite nasty, however, so we opted for a ladybug cake.)

Gifts galore.

Harper loved her princess dress and crown.  How that kid got so girly is beyond me...  She also was super excited about all the pretty accessories (feather boa, sequence purse, cell phone).  The big reveal came next...

hmmmm.... any guesses?

Harper squealed, in true girl fashion, when her kitchen was unveiled.  Then, she proceeded to get to work. (Not sure where this cooking fascination comes from, either.  I don't cook or carry sequence.)

After all the cooking was complete, and the family was visiting in the front room, I peeked over to see Harper enjoying some tea with Great Grandpa.  I was very careful not to disturb this moment.  Harper poured tea for her Great One, and he sipped it down.  When he asked for more, Harper was happy to fill his cup again.  I am pretty sure none of the other guests were aware of this exchange, but I am so grateful I was able to partake.

By far, my favorite moment of the day...

Thanks to all for coming to celebrate the Gnome's Number Two!!!

And to AP - thanks for the view.