Party Tips & Tricks

Don't Do Me Any Favors
"Thank you for inviting me to Grace's party, Mrs. B. Now can I have my goody bag?" one of our guests asked at the end of Grace's sixth birthday bash. "You're welcome and thank you for coming," I said. He looked confused when I explained there was no goody bag -- the jumpy house, pizza, and cake had been the "goody" part and I was glad he had fun. He still looked puzzled as he walked away. He wasn't the only one -- a few more children seemed disappointed to be leaving empty-handed and I was left pondering this whole "goody-bag/parting-favor phenomenon" we've created. Read more.

Beyond Birthday Gifts
Birthday time had rolled around again for my twins. After a celebration with a gaggle of friends (fun, food, gifts), and our own family celebration at home (fun, food, gifts), we were in the midst of celebration number three with extended family at my parents' (more of the same). In a minute or two, the shrieks of joy would die away, and snuggling their new dolls, Caitlin and Ellie would look up, wearing identical "Is that it?" expressions. Thanks to an unprecedented flash of forethought, I was ready for just this moment. Read more.

Musical Gifts
I watched in shock as a dozen small children, clutching packages big and small, suddenly engulfed my petite daughter. Bows and tissue flew in the air as my 5-year-old was surrounded by her friends, all clamoring for her attention. All I'd said was that it was time to open Ally's birthday presents, but you'd think I'd yelled "fire" from the reaction I got. I've never seen children move so quickly. Read more.

Invitation Inspiration
Natalie's birthday party is rapidly approaching, and I've been eyeing a project for decorating T-shirts with leaf prints. But after reading and re-reading the directions, I decided this project sounded suspiciously complicated for a group of five plus me. Then I realized we didn't have to abandon the leaf idea altogether if we just swapped the Ts for the party invitations. It couldn't have been easier, using the directions for this Thanksgiving card craft. Read more.