a birthday party in the park

This is a dual entry I guess - one to document a birthday party and also blessing #20 - dear friends. This year due to various reasons we decided to combine Allison and Madison's birthday parties. Since their birthdays are 2 weeks apart it is tempting every year to do it but this is the first time we've celebrated together. Madison especially wanted to invite "families" so we gathered with several dear family friends primarily from our church. It was a blessing to have Grandma and Grandpa Miller with us - though we also missed Grandma and Grandpa Spence (in NM for my nephew's 1st birthday party!). We are privileged to have so many loving friends in our life. My heart is filled with gratitude as I reflect on the friendships we have here. Every year I am wanting to include more and more people - and Merl assures me that the day will come all too soon when we can invite everyone! (He likes thinking about the grand party of all - his girls' weddings!)

It was the optimal Arizona day for a party - 70 degree weather and sunny. We started the party with cinnamon rolls, bagels, and doughnuts - coffee and orange juice per the girls' request (well the coffee was mine.) The kids loved playing soccer, riding their scooters, and playing games. The pinata was made true to our family tradition by daddy - who always makes it from scratch. This year every child from age 2 - 11 got a swing at it......the last one being Madison, who thanks to the gentleman before her, whacked it wide open to everyone's delight! Daddy then read the girls' scripture verses followed by singing and gifts. The kids then were happy to be free to run and play again.

Simple but fun, I think. Thanks friends for making our day memorable!

Let the party begin with sweets and drinks!

Soccer fun

Duck, duck, goose

Whack!

Such attentive sweeties

Daddy reading the bible verses

Notice the little brother helper....