I am really glad we hosted his party at The Nest. For one, it was a familiar location for Caiden as that is where he has his weekly Sparrows class. Second, it meant I didn't have to worry about cleaning the house from top to bottom before and after the party. Woo hoo! For most kids (and parents), it was their first time at The Nest, so I'm glad they had the opportunity to see what a fabulous facility it is. It was also one of the more reasonably priced options around town.
The party lasted 90 minutes and started at 4pm. Both boys got the chance to get their naps in which was a huge relief. The party was semi-themed with Toy Story which presently is Caiden's favorite thing in the world. We had TS plates, cups, napkins, cupcake toppers, goody bags, and banners. The event with about 40 minutes of open play. There are a variety of themed rooms that the kids can explore and play in, so they were plenty occupied. B also manned the "Buzz Buckets" game that we put together. (Yes, those are home made bean bags made with Buzz Lightyear fabric!) He did a great job engaging the kids and encouraging them try for each bucket. Many of them had a great time with it! Around 4:45, we did the craft that I dreamed up. The kids (with lots of parental help) made Cupcake Crowns. They got to pick out the color headband, put together the top and bottom of the cupcake, and then "frost" and decorate it. I don't usually come up with these kinds of things on my own, so I was beyond thrilled with how well they all turned out! Here's a snap of the trial one I created at home. (Incidentally, I also discovered that I have the perfect 1920s flapper haircut while wearing my creation.)
After the craft, we did a little march around the room and then the kids sat down to eat. We prepared grapes, strawberries, string cheese, apples and butter/jelly and/or cheese cut-out sandwiches. It was so cute seeing all the kids gathered around the table munching on their snacks while wearing their cupcakes. Finally, it was time for the main event of singing to the birthday boy and chowing down on the cupcakes! They were a hit and quickly devoured! The kids had about 15 minutes to burn off the massive sugar intake before it was time to wrap up and head home.
All in all, I'd say this was a pretty successful party! I readily admit that I was pretty dang stressed out for several days leading up to the party, but all of the planning and preparation really paid off! I think Caiden had a lot of fun, and it seemed all his friends did too. :)
Here is the link to the photos from the party and his actual birthday.
And without further ado, here is the video. It's about 10 minutes long, but it captures all of the highlights. Enjoy and thanks for watching! (If you can't see the video, click here to be taken directly to it.)
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