Why do you throw a Christmas party in August? For your son’s birthday of course. For my son, Drake, we had a birthday party with a twist. As some of you may recall, last year for Christmas, Drake ended up sick and in the hospital. As a family, we were overwhelmed by the shear jenerosity of, not just Santa and his elves, but of Brenners Children’s Hospital.
(for more on the story click here)
Before Christmas was even over and our family was healthy and home, I knew what we had to do for Drake’s 4th Birthday. Every year instead of gifts for Drake (quite the bugger to shop for) we pick a charity and have everyone bring items to donate. Then at some point I take all the goods to their destination. Brenners gave not just Drake, but my oldest son Grant a bag, full of toys, bigger than they were! I’m not talking silly, measley, left-over, no kid wants toys… I’m talking age & gender appropriate that they both loved and charished. The memory will last in our family forever. ( It’s especailly hard on a 3 & 6 year old to understand how Santa would find us!) Magic, shear magic!!!
So before everyone arrived, I brought out the Christmas decorations, Christmas candy (still in date), Christmas plates and napkins.
"In Date" Christmas Candy
I even brought down a small tree to decorate so everyone would have a place to put presents.
Merry Christmas in August
Instead of cake, I made christmas cookies and cupcakes.
just a little cupcake love!
Grant (big brother) decorated the one for the Birthday boy himself!
who wouldn't want this special cupcake?
We filled over 5 Extra Large trash bags full of toys and can’t wait to get them over to the hospital!
Toys Galore!
We even had the cutest party favors for each guest. On the big “after Christmas” sale, I found the shiniest, big, round, colorful ornaments. I only spent $25 cents a piece and tied a quote, “We would never learn to be brave & patient if there were only JOY in the world” -Helen Keller. (Thanks Angie for the quote idea)
- Quote by Helen Keller
In the end the idea was a hit! The cost was MINIMAL (if you plan on the after Christmas sales)! The gift of giving back was a gift in itself! And for his first birthday ever, Drake actually participated in the fun of the party, presents and actually tasted the cupcake that big bros. made!!!
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This just made my day!! You have the biggest, most creative heart of anyone I have ever met..i’m tearing up thinking about everything you have done for the world…because you are so great!
You never cease to amaze me with your parties, wish we could have been there! Happy Birthday Drake!
What an awesome party! LOOOOVE the idea of giving the toys to the hospital! the decorations & all were just perfect!!! You are such an amazing MOMMY!!
Beautiful and inspired post.
Am enjoying the fall nesting party theme and seeing all the different ideas folks are sharing.
look at you getting all fancy shmancy! haha love the collages! i enjoy reading your blogs…you are truly a inspirational person!
Oh my, you are the best. I never want to hear people say there is just not enough time in the day, it’s just what take priority in your LIFE. As I have said before, GOD gave DRAKE the best mommy ever.
OH-and i am so glad you’re my friend. Because your great ideas, become my great ideas. love ya