It was a dream of a party

I ordered fried chicken and salads from the local grocery store. I made dozens and dozens of cupcakes. Oliver helped me decorate them, and Henry helped us schlep everything down to the beach. We gathered on the beach in Santa Monica, at a place that we have been to countless times over the years and that cemented my love for southern California. It's also the place that Sophie The Mermaid loves best.

Photographer: J. Werndorf

Sophie and her dad
photographer J. Werndorf

photographer: J. Werndorf

photographer: J. Werndorf

Mirtha, Sophie and Uncle Tony

Uncle Tony and Sophie

photographer: J. Werndorf

There were many, many friends there.

Sophie and her friend Michelle

My beloved Dr. Jin

The sunset was glorious and a perfect ending to a perfect day.

photographer: J. Werndorf

 And then we went home, laden with presents that Oliver insisted on opening while Sophie lay in her bed, exhausted.

Sophie admiring her mermaid necklace

It was quite an afternoon and evening, one that I'll always remember. Our family is so blessed in friendship and love.