Birthday preparations

Well birthday preparations are underway for Jillian’s big day. I always seem to go overboard when it comes to their birthdays. I work so hard because I want my guests to enjoy every aspect of the party. I want it to be an experience for all ages. But I really like doing it for the kids.

This year Jillian is getting 2 parties. Yes, 2. I know she is only 1 but well since we live in the city and have city friends we need one here. I couldn’t ask my friends to drive down about 1 hour to come for a party. But we need one with all of the family because you only turn 1 once…

For our friends I decided to make it as low key as possible making chocolate cupcakes with vanilla frosting (colored of course in different girly colors with sprinkles) to accompany juice boxes. Sorry moms, I’m getting them all sugared up before dinner time. This little party will be held at our local park for those kids to run around and get their energy out.

Family on the other hand is a little different because we have a large age range from 13 on down. So I’d like to create games and prizes that may suit all of their needs. I’ve broken out some of my “how to” books to plan out some things. Luckily, my step-mom is helping with some of the preparation so that I’m not overloaded. Yet in Malissa fashion I will be making the salsa, guacamole, and of course cake from scratch. I don’t typically have “kid” food because I’ve found sometimes that kids like to eat what adults have too. So I’m planning on grilling some marinated chicken, Italian sausages with onions and green peppers, and some hot dogs. Of course we’ll have some fresh fruit and veggies.

Now the best part and probably unfortunate part: Games. You’ve got to keep the kids entertained right? Who has it in their budget to rent horses, clowns, magicians, or a bouncy castle? I remember the good old fashion birthday parties where you guessed how many M&M’s were in a jar, or you tried to put a clothes pin into a small jar, pin the tail on whatever, piñata, water balloon toss, or musical chairs. So, I’m going to bring back the good ole fun with some of these games to keep them entertained with the parents. I might even have one or two with them involved as well.

It’s just my personality where I like to have everything planned from the moment the guests arrive until the moment they leave. I like to make sure everyone has a good time.

So, get ready to party and celebrate my little girl turning one.