Mums party cheats

Ok...so everyone loves the ideas of kids birthday parties. The reality behind it, not so great. 

My first son Owen had a few parties and poor Oscar, my second has got to 5 without even one. So I thought this year he really does need one. 

Then of course stupid mummy breaks her back and winds up poorly. 

Cue lots of research from my hospital bed. 

Venues, entertainment, guest lists, menu, party bags, birthday cake. All on a tight budget!

So I found the perfect venue £75 for a hall with football at one end, diddy cars,soft play and a bouncy castle. This catered for the whole of oscars class rather than just the boys. Plus 2 hours of fun and a member of staff. Glastonbury leisure centre is a great, easy venue with lots for a varied age and gender of child. 

I found a fantastic caterer who provided food for 25 children, all for a low price. A good idea if like me you're unable to stand in the kitchen for hours. I have to be honest. This part really took away any stress for me. 

Party bags...what a great business idea. Pre filled bags. Beautifully wrapped and cost effective. So many people myself included, have spent a fortune on favours which helpfully come in lots of odd numbers so you end up buying more of what you need. I found a lady locally via Facebook who did a range of bags with a variety of fillings to suit every budget. I bought both boy and girl themed bags. Again another great idea to cut down on any stress. Plus in my opinion cost effective. 

Tashispamperpartybags@hotmail.co.uk was absolutely brilliant to deal with, highly recommended. Lots of lovely personal touches like a little tag thanking the partygoers for coming love from Oscar. 

My sister in law provided the cake, which of course had to be football themed. With lovely personalised football shirts. With some grass cupcakes to go home with the guests alongside the party bags. I'm sure you'd agree how clever Sophie is!

Although I did lots of prep, I'm glad I did it the way I did. I got to watch my children and his friends enjoy the party. Instead of stressing and running round like a maniac. 

I am so happy the day went well, Oscar is a very happy young man and 20 something children went home a little more exhausted. 

Still need to consider how to deal with those who don't RSVP though!! Ha!!

Thanks to all those who helped today. 

Rocking my brace

Sooooo this is my new best friend for the next 3 months. 

Lets hope I can jazz it up with some sparkle. 

The only issue is, it makes my boobs look huge. Plus breast feeding is a nightmare. 

It's also itchy and makes me hot. BUT it's all for the greater good. I have an appointment with trauma and orthopaedics on Monday. So we will see what the future holds. For now I'm rocking 'the jet pack' as my kids call it!