Melanie's guide on how to turn a playgroup into a "non-birthday party"

How do you turn a playgroup into a "non-birthday party"?

It's easy.

First you set up a swimming pool play group that just happens to be on the child's birthday.

Next, you make out silly paper invitation (in Microsoft word) for said "play group" and hand them out to 11 boys and 1 girl (yes...those were the numbers), adamantly reminding the parents that this is a "play group" not a birthday party so no presents are necessary.

Next on the list...cupcakes.

To wrap things up...a pinata.

All at the last minute. No more than 24 hours of prep work.

It's easy....no hassle...no stress.....no worries because after all......it's JUST a play group.

3:00PM everyone shows up and.......it's a blast. Everyone has tons of fun!

You can do it.....I just did and it TOTALLY worked!

(You see, we only allow our kids "friend" parties every other year starting at age 5. Since Gabe had his friend party last year......this was definitely NOT A PARTY!.....Yeah right.....Who are we kidding?)

Happy Birthday Gabe.....I love you little buddy!

Pinata fun

I finished it off (or "won" as the kids called it)


Gabe munching on his goodie bag from the pinata

I think all in all Gabe had a fun birthday. He chose the menu for the day (breakfast:cinnamon rolls, lunch:Costco hot dogs and rootbeer, dinner: homemade pizza and more rootbeer), he didnt' have to have "quiet time" and he anxiously anticipated opening his presents all day.

"The Loot"


Then....brownie sundeas complete with chocolate brownie, neapolitan ice cream, chocolate fudge, whip cream, and sprinkles.

We had family movie night (Gabe picked the movie) and the kids went blissfully off to sleep.

I can't believe he is 6 already! Wowsers!