It is just under 3 months until Jack’s second birthday and I am already finding myself in a flap trying to sort out his birthday and Christmas presents – I like to try and get ahead and want to make sure that all of his presents are bought by the end of November (that includes Christmas presents) as I want to spend the time between Jack’s birthday and Christmas chilling out.
We have already decided that, unlike last year, we won’t be having a huge party for him this year. Last year was a one off thing for the family to attend and it is likely he won’t have another one like that until he hits the grand old age of 18. From now on, his birthday parties will be kids and parents only (plus his grandparents, of course) as we just cannot afford the expense. It also seems silly to shell out loads of money on a birthday that isn’t much of a milestone compared to 1, 18, 21 etc.
Although we have said that all birthdays from now on will be kids and parents only, this does not include this year. This year, we plan on just having a birthday meal out somewhere that is baby friendly, with both sets of grandparents in tow. What is the most baby friendly restaurant you know?
Jack’s awesome birthday t-shirt for last year from Auntie Sarah
I know some people will be wondering why we aren’t having a party and feel it is a little mean. However, there is plenty of time for that when he is a little older. Parties now seem to be used as a way to out do each other. I didn’t have a party every year when I was really young – I think I had my first birthday party and then the next was my 4th or 5th when I was at school. The majority of my friends had the same – it is only recent years that kids birthday parties have become this thing that parents must compete over and I think that is quite sad. I am more than willing to wait before jumping into that shark pool.
I think it'll be much more fun for your son and the people attending to have a party when he's older and can interact! Happy Birthday to him! (:
Thanks!
You're so right! The children in my son's class have a birthday every year and it's so OTT. It didn't happen every year when I was a child. In fact the norm was that everyone had a party maybe once with school friends. People used to just go out with their family for a treat somewhere and/or a birthday tea. My son's friends do all that as well as a party. The trouble is then children expect that as the norm and don't appreciate the little things. We couldn't afford that every year, we would have to miss a family holiday! No way!
Exactly – why spend money on something so silly when it can be spent on something that truly benefits them?x
You're so right! My mum didn't celebrate my 16th birthday with a blast. She said 1,5, 18 and 21 are the most important years for one so we will celebrate it with a HUGE party but not every year. It ain't mean, just need to understand this (:
Thanks, I didn't think it was mean – just think some people can be so competitive!x
How cute is he. I used to work in a play area doing parties and the prices got ridiculous plus parent brought extra things for party bags to try out do each other
Carrieanne x
http://beautiesunlocked.blogspot.co.uk/
Aww, thank you! It is crazy how much people will spend on a party their child won't remember!x
I so need to think what to get him this year haha! I don't remember many of my parties from when I was young and only bits of them up till I was about 8. Just have some family time 🙂 x
Aww! Yeah, thats the plan 🙂