Edging Toward the Tween Years

Last weekend we had Eliza Grace's 8th birthday party. I think her choices were indicative of the fact that she is moving away from some childish ways and moving towards early adolescence: a horseback riding party...with a Scooby Doo themed cake.

Thankfully the weather was not too cold or wet and I think everyone had a really great time. There was a little something for everyone: pony rides, horse drawn cart rides (although it was really more of a seated chariot ride), turkeys that followed you around and pecked at the back of your knees, geese, ducks, peacocks, goats to feed, dogs...you get the picture.

After we were done at the barn, we headed back to our house for pizza, cake and presents. Afterward, Eliza Grace declared it the "best birthday party in my entire life!" Now that is something every parent loves to hear!

These proud fellas followed just about everyone around. Their gals stayed close to make sure they were not tempted to stray

If you gobbled at them, they gobbled right back...loudly!

Hmph..they gave me their rear view

They enjoyed pecking at Eliza Grace's reflective tag

on the back of her jacket. The girls were obviously excited about getting on the ponies. You can practically hear Ms. Ali saying,"girls, please do not run up behind the ponies."

Eliza Grace letting Chief check her out

Waiting to mount up

I wonder what tale Eliza Grace was telling here?

Apparently my girl knows how to pose

Heading out on the trail This is how Will patiently awaited his turn:

Aunt Heidi and Cousin Gretchen
heading out for their ride The cart rides were a big hit!

Then we took the gang back to our house for
the yummy stuff