We opened the last of Megan's birthday presents on Friday. (And wrote the last thank you note, another topic in itself.) And I am so relieved. Megan's birthday is over. I had been worrying and stressing about Megan's 4th birthday for at least 6 months. It is nice to have a break from her birthday party for a little while.
Part of the on going culture shock that I have found in moving from Western Mass to Westchester has been the children's birthday parties. The parties thrown for 4 and 5 year olds just seemed over the top. The number of kids (20 to 30) and the elaborate activities (rock concert, fun craft) and the expensive ($$$$$). And while I haven't been to one, I've heard about crazy stories about parties for even younger kids.
It was the expense that just drove me over the edge. Because I knew that we couldn't afford to play in that league. And even if we could afford it, I am actually not sure we could justify it to ourselves.
We ended up having Megan's party on the day before the Memorial Day long weekend. A move designed to slim down the guest list. In the end, only half the class could make it. And it was perfect. The kids played until they were red faced and sweaty, ate cake, and went home.
But I fretted about it for months. Seriously. But now having thrown an atypical Westchester party, I feel more confident in doing it again. So maybe next time I can cut the worry down to 3 months. Maybe.
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