Smiles All the While

Ally had a lot to smile about this weekend. First, her birthday was on Friday, Game Day, and we won a big game! Dad put her name in the program, too ("Happy Birthday to our Stats Girl")--that made her feel pretty special.

Next, we had a beautiful day of sunshine and slightly warmer weather on Saturday. Ally got ready for her friends to come over and took her annual picture with her Birthday Buddy, Mickey. (Born the same year; Mickey will be quick to remind you that he entered the family first!!)

Five friends and one cousin came over for lunch, then we all went to the big gym to play. Free reign of the high school gym is pretty big stuff for a bunch of girls. They had a blast!!

Back home, it was time for some cake and ice cream. Our darling daughter. (Cy did a pretty slick job lining up those candles, didn't he?)

Present time, always a lot of fun. We hate having friends bring gifts--we just wanted a play date--but you know how people can't resist. Plus it's fun to see what kids come up with, to give to their friends. The house was full of GIRLS that day! (Cy and Dad went to scout a football game.)

One of the presents was from cousin Claire and family--Hyper Dash. It is awesome!! And one level of it even promotes math skills!

When the friends left and the boys arrived home, we went out for supper. Ally picked Steve's Pizza Palace. It was our first time in their new building. Lucky us! We got to eat in the pirate ship at Captain's Cove! Mark actually didn't mind the pizza this time--we had a cheese for the kids (of course) and bacon cheeseburger for the parents. Plenty for leftovers!

More cake and ice cream, because Dad and Cy missed the afternoon festivities. Good thing we made a double cake!

I just love my big girl's smile!

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you--1 Thessalonians 5:18