Due to budget constraints, and the desire to simplify life, Papa and I decided that we would do birthdays a little different this year. In the past, we have had the occasional birthday party with multiple friends, but most often we have had a big Family Dinner celebration at Red Robin, where the birthday child can invite one friend to dinner and to spend the night.
This year, however, even a Family Dinner at Red Robin is a bit over the top for our budget. So, we decided that this year each birthday child would be able to pick one friend to do an activity with, and have a special birthday dinner out with. Papa and I are very excited for the more one-on-one celebration. Since they spend all day every day with all of the siblings, a special date with Papa and Mama should be fun.
Elijah chose bowling for his activity, and his friend, J., for his Birthday Buddy. After 2 games of bowling, the 4 of us went out to dinner at Red Robin. (They give a free birthday meal, and since Elijah and I were both celebrating our b'days, we only had to pay for Papa and J.)
After dinner at Red Robin, we came back to our house for cake and ice cream with the sisters and brothers, and, of course, present opening. While we were gone, Hosanna (12) baked the cake, made the frosting, and did her first Cake Decorating job. Way to go, Hosanna!
The cake looks great! What fun, we had to change things around for our kids birthdays due to money...I actually like the small group better.
ReplyDeleteHappy belated birthdays to you both. It looks like the boys had a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea to have one-on-one time with a parent and friend (and your new plan is a great inspiration for thinking outside the box to fit into what's right for right now)! One of my mottos for birthdays is "keep it simple - make it fun." And you're doing that.
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday to all of your b-day kids - and big kids.
Love you!
Ann
Hi! I'm a friend of Cassie's and I love reading your blog. You should seriously think about writing a book if you haven't already. I'd read it! :)
ReplyDeleteMy neighbor just said the exact same thing (as the last comment)! We both love reading your blog and wonder how it is you find the time to think so deeply and write so eloquently. What a gorgeous family, Laurel. You must be one proud mama!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ladies. Seriously, your comments are JUST what I needed right now. I was just talking with my dear hubby this evening, and asked if I might set aside 2 or 3 evenings per week to write (which means ... to escape the confines of my beautiful abode ... to leave the children at home with him ...).
ReplyDeleteI AM going to seriously pursue my writing ... starting NOW!
Thanks!!!
Laurel :)