Got back into the city, and stopped off at Stanley's for some veggies. Made some guacamole dip for the picnic, and trundled off to Humboldt Park (where, amazingly, I have never been). Gretchen's having an all-day party in the park, and I headed off the join the festivities.

Here's what I was greeted with, being one of the first to arrive. Hung out a long while with Rob and Gretchen and Dave. Gretchen had with a book that Justin had loaned her (and one he had loaned to me some while back).

The book was André Maurois's collection, "Ricochets", and she ended up reading her favorite story to us (as an aside - let me say how much I enjoy being read to). And I, in turn, ended up flipping through and finding my favorite story and reading that out as well (as an aside - let me say how much I enjoy reaing out loud to others).

Drum and chair. Rob and Gretchen did a great job setting the location up, and it was incredibly cozy and comfortable.

You know what would have been perfect for today? A Foxtail.

Mmmmmmm. Pic-a-nic basket. :yogibear:

Dave entertains us with his juggling prowess.

View of the park, from where I was sitting.

Rob cuts up some watermelon.

Justin shows off his pineapple entree. Rob, for his part, makes that face he so loves to make.

Who needs a table? Just move that chair full of food over to the middle!

For what little he saves via helium, he's gotta be losing more through wind resistence. :|

This guy's kids must LOVE it when he has a bad day at the office.

There was some motion near the water, and I ended up going over to check things out. A cross had caught my eye, and I wanted to see why folks had decorated it with a bunch of balloons.

Turns out, there was a concert to be held in the park today. It was a Latin/Gospel type performance, and everyone was invited.

This was neat and spooky, all at the same time.

Small tent area, nearby.

Here's a view of the picnic area, walking back. That would be the birthday gal, Gretchen, center.