RE: 1st birthday suggestions
Since Sarah just turned one and all the kids in my mommy group are all turning one at the same time, I have been to a number of first birthday parties recently. :)
I would say to keep the number of children at the party to a minimum. More than a few kids at the party means a lot of chaos. Try to plan the party time for a time that not in the middle of naptime. 11:30 am or 12 seems to work for a lot of people.
My playgroup (which has a LOT of people in it) had a joint first birthday party for all the kids in the playgroup at a local Gymboree. It was fun, but a little overwhelming with all the babies and all the mommies and all the daddies. (All running around with cameras or videocameras or both.)
I saw a really neat gift at a party yesterday. Someone took the party invitation, painted a pitcure frame the same color as the invitation and framed the invitation as a keepsake. It was adorable and very unique.
Sarah's favorite toy from her birthday is the Fisher Price Barn. She loves all the little animals (carries them with her everywhere) and also loves to open and close the barn door that goes "Moo!" :)
HTH,
Beth, mom to older DD (8/01) and younger DD (10/06) and always missing Leah (4/22 - 5/1/05)