back to basics

A favorite "mom" moment of mine is planning and hosting birthday parties for my daughter.  I love the creative process, the element of design, taking the time to make it special and celebrating with loved ones.  It was never a question that we'd host these parties in our home, complete with a theme, some amount of decor and total attention to detail.  For the first few birthdays we kept things small, with only family and a close friend or two.  It was all about an intimate celebration and not overwhelming her.  The fourth birthday was her princess moment, complete with pink, purple and polka dot details.  Macy chose the theme and the color scheme.  My goals were to make it slightly fancy, a bit unexpected for a princess party and something she would remember for a long time.

 After Macy turned four and was a full-time pre-k'r, birthday party invites from classmates arrived frequently.  She was an enthusiastic party guest for all things jumping, climbing, bouncing, painting, etc.  It was difficult for her to comprehend the calendar and that her birthday wasn't until summer, in fact right in the middle of summer vacation.  To avoid a sad four year old, or even a tantrum, I suggested another sort of celebration - Valentine's Day.  She was excited of course, and our planning began immediately.  We started months in advance and did a little at a time.  I offered lots of suggestions, but really let her take control.  She was old enough to express a real opinion and find joy in being a little hostess.  It was a special "pink" afternoon for Macy and her girlfriends.  It was a special mother daughter memory for Macy and me. 

This was a light bulb moment.  How many other families are doing this?  Having parties at home, integrating their child into the process, and creating lifetime memories or family traditions?  Some would argue it's easier to schedule a party at the local jump, bounce, or art place.  In today's fast paced family life, should we be slowing down, paying more attention to our children and their ideas?  Is there a need to get Back To Basics?  Party Basics that is..........