David invited the girls to go on a walk with him today. He’s been waking up early and spending some time alone with God, enjoying brisk strolls, so he is familiar with Dargaville’s streets and attractions. The older Lang girls are very confident with the small town’s layout and helped lead David and his posse of girls to a number of different playgrounds, parks, shops and even to their Daddy’s place of work!

This is my David who bravely hit the town with six young girls in tow.

The girls explored Dargaville's formal riverside gardens. This garden is labelled as a "touch and smell garden". Lavender and other herbs are planted specifically to encourage picking and enjoying. At this location, David and the girls shared a yummy lunch of corn chips, potato salad, orange juice and a chocolate bar.

Only 8yo Bethany could balance along the top of this very high wall — a great example to our girls of what they'll be able to do in a little while. We love hanging out with older kids as it gives us an idea of what our daughters will grow into, and it inspires our children to do more.

A great big circle filled with ceramic-tile mosaics creates intricate pathways and passages for the girls to follow.

During our visit to the Langs, Aisha and Faith have built a powerful rapport. This shot is indicative of how closely these two best buddies liked to be while walking around town.

A large boat-shaped playground is spotted.

The girls spy an ice-berg ahead. Are they on the Titanic?

Gymnast/acrobat extraordinaire, Faith demonstrates agility and balance.

While watching a busker at the local markets, the Langs were delighted to see their Auntie across the parking lot.

Beautiful, happy smiles declare that the all-day outing is going smoothly, evidence of Divine design and planning.

Just outside the Returned Serviceman's Association club, the kids had great fun on this old war cannon, a reminder of the sacrifice that our fathers paid for the peace we enjoy.

Together, the girls fully entered a cannon-powered fantasy.

At another playground, all six girls go around and around.

A lower ledge in another part of town means the younger children can also enjoy walking on top of the wall. Of course, there's no difference in balancing along a high ledge or a low one — the perception is all in the mind.

Bethany particularly wanted to show her friends this tree. The Lang girls call it the "Nest Tree" as at its base, there's a root-formation that resembles a giant nest.

The nest tree is easy for children to climb.

When the girls and David arrived home, they were tired from the long walk, but not grizzly. The long walk had progressed slowly, with many distractions along the way so that to the girls it felt like they were exploring a never-ending playground.

At home, Katrina and I enjoyed the time alone with Tahlia and Delaney. The littlies loved receiving individual attention, and we relished the quiet peacefulness of the house.

Thanks for such a great day, David — from everyone!