Celebrate Good Times: The Rest of the Story

Here she is, radiant in rainbow*

So, Grace has been planning her big day for awhile now.  At least since VA when we had a little pre-birthday, throw-her-in-the-pool party with cousin/ triplet Zack.  Back in Texas, Grandpa Doyle made her a birthday countdown sheet.  Chris made her another when that one got wet or lost or something.

"Take 1" of the birthday pic.  Forever the comedian.

preparing for the big surprise

someone put Ella under the pillows ("No one puts Baby in the corner")

her cry for help

get ready....

The big moment--check out Grace's response:

The poor guests had been hiding and waiting fifteen + minutes when Chris and Grace finally pulled up. Fortunately we had a very fun next activity ready to go.

So, I cheated and bought an online ready-made treasure hunt.  It was well worth the bucks because the clues were more like riddles--something the girls really got into this summer.  It was fun and had them thinking a lot too.  They found a package with pretty necklaces to wear to dinner.

It's a wonder Ella can walk

almost to victory

we played charades after a lasagna dinner

"sounds like"

prepping the cake

a "G" for our "G"

 I had a really hard time with Grace's gift this year.  For awhile, an American Girl Doll was high on the list but that didn't seem like a good fit.  Then one morning, Grace turned to me and said, "I know what I want for my birthday.  Horseback riding lessons."  I thought that was a sensible thing to ask for--an experience rather than another thing to clutter up their floor.  So, I called around and we have a plan.  I am very excited to be there with her, camera in hand, enjoying the horses and the country feel.

The next day--enjoying some of the loot

one gift is still to come--our neighbors invited her to a tea party this Saturday

They asked me to play Alice.  Shouldn't be too difficult though I am in need of a blue dress....

Is this not amazing artwork?  It's courtesy of neighbor brother, Matthew C, grade six

Whew!  Another birthday down.  And, guess what I found out today.....Grace does like chocolate cake she just wasn't in the mood last night.  I felt much better when I saw all the chocolate around her mouth and on her shirt after dinner tonight!  Doyle Dame number five knows she's next and is already planning....   :)

Happy celebrations to all!

*rainbows remind me so much of Grace.  They are cheerful like her and they are symbolic.  Whenever we see a rainbow, I try to remind the kids that "God keeps His promises".  The word "promise" is important to me for many reasons when it comes to G.  I loved her rainbow party.