Fixing my birthday blunder

Since I dropped the ball planning a doggie party for Linus' June 10 birthday, I planned a full day of activities for us on Saturday. Here's a few snippets from our outting. Mother and dog had a great day together shopping, walking, playing and, of course, eating!

First, we hit a hot spot for all of Lexington's doggie socialites, the Farmer's Market downtown. Below, we are browsing around, making friends and hunting for some local fare.

Our next stop on the birthday to-do list was the nearby Bluegrass Barkery where we shopped for presents. Our friend Jodi and other doggie product experts at the Barkery advised us on a toy, a chewie and ample treats for Linus' birthday dinner. Linus was mostly interested in Jodi and her generous giving of tasty treats. While we were there, we also picked up the oh-so-important birthday cake (above).

After all that shopping, Mommy was hankering her own sweet treat. We walked past Woodland Park and made a stop for water, a sandwich and a cup of pistachio gelato at the doggie-friendly new joint, 6 Friends. Their patio is the perfect summer spot for enjoying a delicious bite with friends and pups (patio-only). Below, we take a breather from all that walking.

We got home in time to start dinner and wrap the presents Linus (sorta) picked out at the Barkery. After my Dad, my brother and I enjoyed steaks and homemade potato salad made from locally grown new potatoes I found at the Farmer's Market, we invited Linus to the table.

As you can see (above) Linus was the man of honor, eager to gobble up his cake all on his own. But we had to encourage him to mind his manners and share with his guests (below).

After we sang "Happy Birthday," cake was distributed to the dogs, and Uncle Noah helped Linus open his presents. He received a sampler of rabbit food, a new cooling bandanna (which you see him wearing), a beef chewie, and a wool rope, as well as an assortment of Barkery treats to share.

And there was no messing around when it came to that cake. He couldn't get it down fast enough!

Happy Birthday, Linus!