My daughter was counting down the days until her 11th Birthday the other day. "Hey mom 15 days until my birthday," she shouted! Yikes! I felt this weight hit my shoulders. Every year it is up to me to come up with the party idea, plan it, organize it and throw the party, not to mention pay for it. My ex-husband does not see it as a "child expense" for which he should have to contribute.
Why do girls parties always seem to be more work than the boys? Last year we did a sleep over party on a Thursday night (no school on Friday.) Then, on Saturday night was a slumber birthday party with many of the same girls. I guess I am reluctant about planning this year's party because the mom that did the party on Saturday night last year threw a really FUN party. I was thankful my daughter's party was first so we did not have to match the bar she set.
I know it is not a competition. The girls had a good time at my daughter's party. Yet, I feel this (self imposed-I know) pressure to come up with a really great party. I tell myself this will be her last "big" party, so we should make it special. If money/expense, time, and help were not an issue I could have a grand time planning and throwing her party.
As a single parent, I don't like to impose on others to help with the party. If I am not careful my thoughts can easily go to, "if only her parents were not divorced, she could have a better party, I could have help doing the party like her other friends…" Over the years I have learned not to let my mind go there. I do the best I can with what I have. As long as she enjoys her birthday, that is all that truly matters. Sounds like we will be brainstorming the next few days to come up with a party plan.
copyright 2008 Shelley Grieser All rights reserved
