The Most Memorable Party for My Daughter

Each year summons a new task for me, a memorable birthday party for my girls.

"What do you think we should have this year?" "Do you think we should have a Hawaiian or a Karate party?" "What about the return gifts?" "What about the cake?"

Life was much easier when they were infants or even toddlers - get them a Pooh bear or a princess cake; invite a handful of their friends and bunch of ours.

Alas! All good times come to an end. Soon they were cribbing about the adult menu and the guests.

When my daughter turned nine, she announced, "Mom, this year we're having a sleepover."

"How many girls?" I tried to sound excited.

"Eleven. I have the list ready."

Her face was determined and the eyes gave the message, wide and clear.

Nervous, I looked at my husband for support; who shifted his weight from the left to the right side of the couch. My pleading eyes went un-noticed.

Eleven girls in our house for twelve hours... Could I do it?

One step at a time, I'd learned in these years.

The list was cross-checked, approved and sanctioned.

The invitations were sent.

It was time for action!

New pajamas were bought, a cake with shoes, handbags with pink and white icing was ordered.

Well, that was the easy part when my daughter asked, "What about crafts?"

My eye balls popped out of their socket.

I couldn't sew to save my life!

Five hours in Wal-Mart; we found these cute canvas handbags. To decorate them we bought some iron-on transfers.

I could handle that! There wasn't any needle or thread involved. Some fancy beads and stickers; we were all set.

I left the store proud.

The day dawned.

I'd read about the do's and don'ts about sleepovers, hence, I was prepared with a list to ask the parents when they arrived to drop the kids.

"Any allergies?"

"Emergency number?"

Soon, the house was flocked with girls. Someone wanted to play limbo, while the other whined.

I stood in the corner watching!

Come on, super mom, get a grip.

"Kids, it's time for craft." I found myself mumbling.

The girls ran to the basement as I handed each their handbags.

"Can I have the pink one?" "I don't like this shade of blue."

Lesson learned; one color for next time.

Out came the iron...

"Can I try it? "I iron clothes at home."

"Why don't you arrange your stuff and bring it to me. I'll iron them one at a time."

When I look back, I think the smartest thing I did was to ask a friend to come over and help.

I waited for her as I whispered a prayer.

The door bell rang.

"Phew!"

The girls co-operated and we dexterously worked with them on the handbags.

"Oh, mine looks so cute."

I felt relieved and proud.

After the handbags, the nails were done; the kids got their hats and bags and modeled as I took pictures. It wasn't till midnight, anyone was ready for cake.

Their favorite movie was ordered and soon they relaxed in their slumber bags with buttered popcorn.

My eyes were heavy; the legs were tired as I made myself comfortable on the couch. The exuberance on the girls' faces tugged my heart. I couldn't help patting my back.

The night passed without a whimper.