A Cottage Debut with a Birthday Celebration

With summer parties almost at an end, 

I wanted to share with you one last outdoor celebration! 

The occasion was my eldest daughter, Heather's birthday. 

It was also the first party at my younger daughter, Jennie's

new home - a 1910 vintage cottage that she purchased

earlier this year. 

So come along with me and we will celebrate

summer's last fling! 

Her little cottage is less than 800 sq. feet, 

but has an open floor plan 

and large back yard that is perfect for entertaining. 

Jennie greets us at the front door. 

Welcome! 

Come inside! 

We walk through her bright and airy living room. 

We've arrived early to lend a helping hand. 

The table has been set for a menu of 

gourmet burgers and dogs with small dishes

of labeled sauces, condiments and all the fixings. 

Layered bean dip in canning jars are ready for sampling. 

Crock pots with beans and chili are bubbling on the counter. 

Pasta salad has been prepared. 

Here's Jennie earlier, 

loading the dishwasher while

Weenie Baby keeps guard:)
You can see her front door from here! 

The view from her driveway.
Don't you love her garage doors? 

A shady sitting area as we come through the back gate. 

So cozy.

We had better get back inside - there's much

 to be done before the guests arrive! 

A cupboard is put to good use for cupcake displays.

Sunflowers are Heather's favorite flower. 

Let's take a peek outside where the festivities will be held. 

We walk through the French doors onto the deck. 

Looking back.

Her Dad built her deck
 as a housewarming gift:)  

Bright and happy! 

A sweet place for photos. 

Refreshment table. 

Birthday girl collage:) 

Hand-made pinwheels. 

Bouquets from the local farmer's market. 

The first guests arrive! 

Grand-baby Ethan and sweet Mom, Erica. 

Already 3 and 1/2 months old!

Our precious little dumpling :)

Happy grandparents! 

Our birthday girl arrives! 

All smiles with brother Gabe, (Ethan's Daddy)

and sister Jennie. 

 Heather's hubby, Eric mans the grill!

Eric and Heather's cute little niece.

Her mother, Jackie (Eric's sister), says Hi with Jen.

Our daughter-in-loves, Jen and Erica

with baby Ethan. 

A sweet hug from youngest son, Dustin. 

Opening cards and gifts.

Making a wish. 

Hand stamped napkins and ice cream hearts. 

Some of the girls....
Cousin Shawnee, Heather, Jackie and Jennie

A rousing game of Corn hole (bean-bag toss),
 keeps the guys busy. 

All too soon the day was over! 

As we wish our girl a happy day, 

we count our blessings 

for the wonderful life we've shared.

Happy Birthday, sweet Heather! 

We hope this year is as special as you are! 

xoxo