I’m not sure how this all happened. I swore I would never be one of those people, but somehow that got lost in the chaos. And now I’m in too deep.

Elliott’s first birthday party.

When I was pregnant I remember specifically saying how Christmas was going to be small scale from us because of the absurd amount of crap she was going to get from everyone else. But then I got excited…and couldn’t stop shopping. And now I’m doing it for her birthday too.

I think it began while I was working on the guest list. There were just too many people that we had to invite and I couldn’t justify cutting anyone. So then we had to find a bigger venue. And then we had to get cupcakes. And snacks. And decorations. And drinks. And balloons. And goodie bags for the kids. And a pinata.

And then I couldn’t stop.

There was even talk about a chocolate fountain, but I blame Christine for that one and it was eventually cut. But that’s about the only thing that has been dropped. If Chris knew how much we had spent on this he might decide to boycott the party. Or charge everyone admission. But unless we’re charging $20 a head, we wouldn’t even come close to recouping our money. But he doesn’t know that so I think I’m safe…for now.

Of course, I’m hearing all kinds of opinions about first birthday parties. How it’s really for the grown-ups (you mean Elliott won’t remember this? or send me a thank you note afterwards? brat). But this comment keeps coming from the stupid family member who couldn’t afford to throw his daughter a first birthday party. I’m pretty sure he’s just jealous. But I digress.

One thing I’m still working on is Elliott’s outfit for the big day. I had dreams of a fluffy, pink tutu dress, but this seems so out of character for me that I almost can’t bring myself to do it. Even though I have bid on a couple outrageous dresses on eBay, but lost them. It’s probably a sign, but I’m not good with subtleness. I need a screaming, flashing red sign. Like if my debit card were to be declined while buying the poofy dress. That would make me rethink my choice.

So I’ve already decided (and said out loud to Chris so that makes it official) that first birthday parties are important so they’ll always have to be big. But this won’t happen every year. But even now as I type this, I’m not sure I can keep my word on that one. I’m already envisioning the theme…