Happy 6th Birthday, Carlie!!

We just returned from our Chicago trip to celebrate Carlie's birthday. It may take a few days to get all the highlights posted. As a surprise we had a ladies only lunch at the American Girl Cafe. She said it was her favorite part of the trip. Glad to hear that!! My friend, Nancy, and her daughter, Brooke, still came despite just recovering from the stomach flu. It was great to see her again and finally see Brooke in person rather than just 3 years of photos. Grammy and Pawpaw R. came up with us. And, Grammy D. and Buddy drove up from Lexington to join us as well. The boys all ate at McDonalds.

If you ever get a chance to go, I highly recommend it. It is definitely very fancy & girly. The pampering for the dolls is never ending. The store has a doll hair salon, photo studio, and more clothing choices than I have in my closet. Lucy got her own chair at the table as well as a porcelain dinner plate and cup. And, if you don't have your own American Girl or Bitty Baby, they will provide one for you to dine with.

The meal was delicious. They start you out with cinnamon rolls, then bring out a tray of carrots, cucumbers and cheese pastry puffs with a variety of dips. You can select from about 8 different entrees. I had the chicken panini. It was fabulous. Finally, each person gets a dessert tray with a butterfly cookie, a chocolate mousse flower pot, and mini piece of cake. A great treat well worth the price.

Birthday Girl

Me & C.

The Grammys

Lucy joined us as well. Carlie made her the "L-U-C-Y" necklace she is wearing.

The picture of Nancy and I did not turn out, but she was there too. Great to see you again, Nancy!!