Birthday Shoes

All my Heathens are of the male persuasion, which is perfectly fine with me.  I'm a momma that was meant to raise boys.  I love being outside and getting dirty.  Small boys are right up my alley.

Occasionally, I feel the need to spend time doing "girly" things.  And thank HEAVENS I have been blessed with three nieces!  They are always willing to come play with me when I need girl time and they all belong to women who are willing to share with me.

I've always teased the girls about their shoes because shoes are something that I LOVE.  So, since the girls were all big enough to not really want a toy for their birthdays, we go shoe shopping together instead!

Two of the three girls have birthdays that are only 9 days apart - which means that this shoe shopping trip is a group event every year.  It always involves food to start, then shopping, and then we usually head for ice cream as well.

Ili Grace and Gertrude are quite a pair.  Not only are they cousins, but they love to spend time together as well.  And they are a hoot to watch together.

Usually the girls have an idea of what type of shoe they are looking for.  Last year, Ili Grace wanted slippers and Gertrude wanted dress shoes with heels.  This year, the girls had no clue heading into the store.  However, it didn't take them long to make their selections:

My Ili Grace and  my Gertrude!

 And, we ALWAYS wear our new shoes home.  Thank goodness their mothers are willing to share these two with me.  We always have a blast together!  Happy Birthday to Ili Grace and Gertrude - six years old!

Don't worry Skinny Minnie - your birthday is right around the corner.