The moss , the roses , and soft shadows show the little house and the little girl at their best , and that is what we all should do ; for it is amazing how lovely common things become , if one only knows how to look at them . '' `` I wish I did , '' said Marjorie , half to herself , remembering how often she was discontented , and how hard it was to get on , sometimes . `` So do I , '' said the lady , in her happy voice . `` Just believe that there is a sunny side to everything , and try to find it , and you will be surprised to see how bright the world will seem , and how cheerful you will be able to keep your little self . '' `` I guess granny has found that out , for she never frets . I do , but I 'm going to stop it , because I 'm twelve to-day , and that is too old for such things , '' said Marjorie , recollecting the good resolutions she had made that morning when she woke . `` I am twice twelve , and not entirely cured yet ; but I try , and do n't mean to wear blue spectacles if I can help it , '' answered the lady , laughing so blithely that Marjorie was sure she would not have to try much longer . `` Birthdays were made for presents , and I should like to give you one . Would it please you to have this little picture ? '' she added , lifting it out of the book . `` Truly my own ? Oh , yes , indeed ! '' cried Marjorie , coloring with pleasure , for she had never owned so beautiful a thing before . `` Then you shall have it , dear . Hang it where you can see it often , and when you look , remember that it is the sunny side of home , and help to keep it so . '' Marjorie had nothing but a kiss to offer by way of thanks , as the lovely sketch was put into her hand ; but the giver seemed quite satisfied , for it was a very grateful little kiss . Then the child took up her basket and went away , not dancing and singing now , but slowly and silently ; for this gift made her thoughtful as well as glad . As she climbed the wall , she looked back to nod good-by to the pretty lady ; but the meadow was empty , and all she saw was the grass blowing in the wind . `` Now , deary , run out and play , for birthdays come but once a year , and we must make them as merry as we can , '' said granny , as she settled herself for her afternoon nap , when the Saturday cleaning was all done , and the little house as neat as wax . So Marjorie put on a white apron in honor of the occasion , and , taking Kitty in her arms , went out to enjoy herself .
Three swings on the gate seemed to be a good way of beginning the festivities ; but she only got two , for when the gate creaked back the second time , it stayed shut , and XXXXX hung over the pickets , arrested by the sound of music .
Kitty Marjorie afternoon birthdays deary girl half merry morning year