Birthday Parties

Who doesn't love birthday parties? They are all about fun, games, good food, gifts and of course.... the cake :) Kid's birthday parties used to mean cake from the local super market, handful of balloons and streamers. Not anymore !! From extravagant theme parties, to character appearances and bouncy houses, today's tot celebrations are over the top. Theme parties are a popular trend these days. While not every party needs to have a theme, but lets accept it.... theme parties leave a lasting impression. Plus, these are also a great way of having the birthday child feel special. Popular themes include Frozen, Superheroes, Cars, Dr Suess, Disney characters, Thomas & friends... You think about it... and pinterest has some great ideas on how to plan a birthday party. It is also a booming business, whether they are at home or any popular venue. An average parent will spend about 250$ to host their kid's birthday party... a number that brands cannot ignore.

We had a "Hello Kitty" theme for Anvesha's first birthday. I didn't quite do anything special that time since we wanted to keep it short and simple. On her second birthday, I went a little over board in planning a "Rainbow Theme" party for her. On her third birthday, we might plan a character theme party for her since she is at an age where she has few favorite cartoon characters..... but more on that later.

Anvesha eying at the birthday cake !!

Birthday parties are special not just for the birthday child, but also for all the guests. I loved going to birthday parties as a kid and so does Anvesha. Last couple of weeks we have been busy attending birthday parties. I must say Anvesha has a rocking social life!!!!! She loves to sing the "happy birthday" song. The venues were spread out.... from parks to community halls and bouncy houses.

Happy Anvesha after attending a party......

Anvesha looks forward to going to a birthday party, as birthday parties for her entails prizes, games, cake and a whole afternoon of fun. It also gives her a chance to dress in her favorite party clothes and be with her friends. She gets complete freedom from home and at the end... a hamper of goodies :)

Hats off to all the moms for taking extra pain in planning out the perfect birthday party for their kiddos. 

A day on the farm

"Old Mac Donald had a farm, Ei ei o.... And in his farm he had a cow......."

For some of us who dwell in cities or suburbs, life on a farm comes with bucolic images of sunny days, lush fields and happy animals. I have some of the most remarkable memories from my grandparents house who lived in the country side. Interacting with cows and sheep not only taught me to be compassionate, but also respect the farm life. Growing up in the city of course has its own advantages, such as access to an array of shopping, dining, learning how to be street smart or even how to deal with crowds. But farm life is an experience that kids should be exposed to.

I know I am late in posting this update, but wanted to share what we have been doing this summer. Every year we take Anvesha to nearby farms.... our all time favorite being the Remlinger Farms at Carnation which is only 20 min drive from home. It has a small area where kids can enjoy the rides. Anvesha loves the train and the boat ride there. Last year we had gone for berry picking in summers and pumpkin patch in the fall. Anvesha had a great time there.

We went to Remlinger farms again this year and this time was a new experience as Anvesha enjoyed it more and she loved to feed the animals at the farm too :)

So proud of you Anvesha..... your love for animals shows how compassionate you are !!







Berry picking took a back seat this time, but we took Anvesha to Fox Hollow Farm this year. It is a family owned farm in a beautiful, peaceful setting and is open for visitors. They have their open farm days during spring/ summer and fall.

Anvesha loves animals. She was thrilled to see the farm animals at fox hollow and wanted to pat them. She ran after the ducks and the pigs and was overwhelmed seeing the peacock spreading its feathers. It was as though all the characters from her books and tv had come out alive :) 

There are so many pics of Anvesha on the farm, but the one on the left is my personal favorite.

Fox hollow is also a perfect place for planning birthday parties. Children love animals and they would definitely enjoy it there.  Apart from farm animals, there is a bounce house and miniature trucks that kids can ride on.

How much ever I like the place, but we won't be able to host Anvesha's party there since she is a winter baby and the venue is good for only summers.



So for all you summer babies out there.... I highly recommend Fox Hollow farm for your next birthday party.