For the past two years, we have celebrated Ellie's birthday with a huge party at home. For her 5th, the theme was princess. About 15 kids came over, dressed in their royal finery. We had an inflatable castle jumpy thing, games and of course, cake and ice cream. The following year, the theme was rock star. The girls arrived dressed in their best rocker chick clothes and we had dance contests and made music videos. Both parties were a lot of fun, but the preparation was stressful, to say the least. I spent weeks putting together the activities, the decorations, the goody bags, etc. Then I spent a whole day deep-cleaning my house before the party - I can't have everyone seeing how we really live.

This year, we did things a little different. I suggested and Ellie agreed to have her party at a local shop where you can paint your own pottery. I made one phone call to reserve the date, bought a cake and put together some goodie bags for the guests. Then I just showed up with everyone else and enjoyed the day. Her friends painted puppies, kittens and vases that I will pick up next week after they have been fired in a kiln. Ellie and I will then deliver each girl's masterpiece along with a thank you note.

I may have suggested the location for the party, but what really made it special was all Ellie's idea. She asked that instead of gifts for her, the guests bring donations for our local animal shelter. We now have a trunk full of things that we will deliver to the shelter tomorrow instead a pile of toys that she didn't need anyway.

Happy birthday, Ellie. I am so proud of you!