Happy Birthday, Alexis

Our little Lexie (our great-granddaughter) is now four years old.

She wanted a "Dora Princess" party. She talked about little else for weeks, telling us excitedly all about it.

Well, a "Dora Princess party" is exactly what her Mommy and Daddy delivered for her.

The sun was shining in the beautiful Marthaler Park on a cool, crisp autumn day. Sarah had hot cider with lemon and cinnamon sticks waiting for her guests.

And, of course, Princess hats and balloons.

The children were blindfolded as they played Pin the bracelet on Dora. Of course, the highlight was the Princess crown piñata.


Again, the children were blindfolded as they attempted to break into the piñata, spilling out all the candy treats.
Lexie didn't like her blindfold, but continued to keep her eyes closed.

When, at last, the crown was broken, each child was given a princess bag to collect the goodies.


We feasted on many varieties of piping hot pizzas. And Princess Punch, made by Grandma Kristie.

And, of course, what else but a special Dora birthday cake...homemade by Mommy.

A perfect way to celebrate, don't you agree?

Lexie thanks Mommy with a kiss!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALEXIS LYNN.

Mardi Gras in Lindstrom

Let the good times roll!
Our Park Street neighborhood was transformed yesterday as we celebrated Mardi Gras right here in Lindstrom, Minnesota.

And I do believe you would think it was February in New Orleans.


It even started with a parade.

Masks and costumes were worn by all the guests.

Nawlins cuisine was served: shrimp, seafood stuffed shells and crab dip with crackers. Frozen strawberry Daquiris (for the adults, of course), jambalaya, gumbo with rice, King's cake for dessert.

There was lively dancing in the street, and games and prizes for all ages. We all played Bingo, and I never knew there were so many versions: 4-corners, postage-stamp, x's and cover-all.


Our hosts were our good
friends and neighbors
par excellence,
the Pahls.



At 9:00, when it grew dark, the yard lanterns were lit. Children waved laser wands that lit up in the dark.

Then came the fireworks. Ah, what a glorious fireworks display they were. They couldn't have been better in New Orleans.




What a grand finale to a fun August celebration.