Birthday Month Part Three

don't freak out if the frosting on the cake melts - go with it

You shouldn’t do it all.

You can do it all, but you shouldn’t. The point of a party is to enjoy yourself, right? So, take some of the stress away and don’t do it all.

I recruited some help. I let some things go. I realized that it’s a special day for me too and that I can’t do everything and still enjoy myself. So:

• I decided that it wasn’t worth my time to make potato salad when the deli makes it better than I do anyhow.
• I bartered with my mom’s friend (who is a professional photographer) to come take photos of the big day – and some formals while we were at it. I didn’t even bring my camera. This was totally awesome – and totally worth it. If you don’t know a pro, recruit a few friends. You don’t want to be bothering with a camera when the cake comes out!
• I used things from around my house to decorate – the paper cranes were given to me a few years ago, the bug is one of Max’s toys, and I used coordinating serving pieces from my cupboards. I frosted the (made ahead and frozen) cupcakes in colors coordinating with the decorations. Small effort, but big impact. I didn’t bother with balloons or streamers. I considered making a few buntings, but it wasn’t necessary. No one cared, and I don’t think people even noticed.
• I had my dad grill, and had my mom and MIL on appetizer/side/drink refill duty.
• Mom did a lot more too.
• Mom and dad hosted it at their house - which was huge all on its own.

So, during the party itself, what did I do? I talked with my friends. I ate. I chased my little boy around and gave him kisses, when he wasn’t being snuggled by his adoring fans. I enjoyed myself, and tried to make sure I didn’t have food/snot/dirt on my face for when RD came around the corner with her camera.

AND – I accepted compliments on throwing a great party with tasty food, cute decor, and a laid-back atmosphere. Mission: accomplished.

Now, check out the birthday boy smashing his cake, and then realizing that he could eat it. Time lapse: less than 5 minutes.