Cassidy had just finished giving Claire a bath. The little girl sat on the edge of the bed, her damp hair wrapped in a towel, while Cassidy helped her pick out clothes for the park.
"Mommy," Claire said, eyes bright with excitement, "can I wear my favorite blue dress? I want to wear it to the park!"
Cassidy smiled gently and shook her head. "Sweetheart, the park isn't the best place for that dress. It's better if you wear something more casual, something you can run and play in."
Claire's shoulders slumped a little. "But it's my favorite…"
"I know it is," Cass said softly, brushing a strand of hair from Claire's cheek. "But we're going to be on the grass, maybe the playground. You'll be more comfortable in something simple. How about your overalls or the polka-dot shorts you like?"
Claire thought for a moment, then gave a small nod. "Okay… but can I wear the blue dress next time?"
Cassidy chuckled. "Of course. Next time we go somewhere fancy, it's the first thing you wear."
