"It's called a lake. And it sparkles!"

Says the 6 year old birthday girl to the dog as we drive along the shore, looking for the perfect place to stop and enjoy an evening picnic.

I am feeling quiet. Do any of you have one of those children who get get a bit blue the day after a special day like a birthday? I was one of those children. I guess I still am...


This was our first lakeside picnic of the season, Chessa's choice to celebrate here, we brought a simple dinner, including fruit salad in a big watermelon bowl. (There was strawberry shortcake too, but we decided that was probably best, easiest, eaten at home.)

It was Isabella's (doll) birthday too, of course, she was well taken care of all day long. She was especially happy that her mama got a new little rocking chair for her birthday, so that there could be lots of cozy storytelling and cuddling.

So there was lots and lots of happy outdoor play. Some tree climbing.

Lots of running down to the edge of the lake.

And then back up again. Almost more like she was in flight, look at those arms!

(Mommy and Daddy wandered about with the girls for a while and then sat close by the fire, true happiness watching our girls delight in the evening.)

Happy and dirty at the end of her day.

And then once more back down to the lake. The girls appreciated the wonderfulness of being able to go for a walk by the lake after dinner.

A special day for our dear little Chessa Morgan!